Sunday Brunch's Simon Rimmer replaced as Tim Lovejoy makes announcement live on air

Sunday Brunch host Simon Rimmer was notably absent from the latest live show.

Tim Lovejoy kicked off Sunday's (February 23) episode by revealing that his co-host Simon is unwell and wouldn't be joining him on the programme.

He said: "There's no Simon Rimmer this morning because he's ill but don't worry Angela Hartnett is going to cook instead. What a replacement."

The show welcomed guests Gabrielle, Jordan Gray, Jeremy Dyson, Andy Nyman, Philippa Dunne, and Daniel Mays. Simon has been a staple on Sunday Brunch with Tim since its inception in 2012.

This follows an incident earlier in the month when Tim had to issue an apology after a live episode blunder. During the show, American celebrity Billy Porter accidentally swore while discussing who among the guests had previously worked as a sofa salesman.

When Simon questioned if it was Billy who had the furniture sales background, Billy inadvertently exclaimed "Oh s***".

The unexpected curse caused a mix of shock and laughter on set, leading Tim to quickly apologise to the audience, saying: "Apologies for any bad language that anybody heard there."

Viewers at home didn't miss the slip-up and promptly took to X – formerly known as Twitter – to share their reactions.

One fan gushed: "Looking amazing and cursing like a trooper on live TV. Billy Porter is a star! #SundayBrunch." Another viewer quipped: "It's ok no one is offended....as no one is watching! #sundaybrunch."

Meanwhile, a third questioned: "Anyone else notice Billy swearing? " In other news, Simon is set to expand his presence in the broadcasting world with the announcement that he will join Global's Gold Radio for its 2025 lineup.

He's slated to host a new show playing classic hits from the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s every Saturday from 8am to 12pm, while also continuing as co-presenter of Channel 4's Sunday Brunch.

Sunday Brunch airs weekly on Channel 4 at 10am