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John Leslie plans a ‘surprise’ for Fern Britton’s farewell
Last updated at 12:43pm on 16.07.09John Leslie is making his first appearance on This Morning in seven years, after he was forced to quit amid sexual assault and drugs allegations.
Saying goodbye: Fern Britton and John Leslie
ITV insiders said Leslie would record a video message for his former co-host Fern Britton's final programme tomorrow. Leslie, 44, confirmed today that he was planning “a surprise”.
In 2002, talk show host Matthew Wright blurted out Leslie's name in connection with an unnamed celebrity who TV presenter Ulrika Jonsson alleged in her book had raped her. Leslie faced no police action.
He kept his job but was forced out weeks later after pictures emerged of him apparently snorting cocaine. The Scot, now a property developer, later faced two charges of indecent assault against another woman, but these were dropped in 2003.
It was reported today that show bosses had banned Leslie from the studio tomorrow as they did not “feel it was appropriate” to include him.
Leslie said: “I can't tell you what will happen tomorrow as I want it to hopefully be a surprise. People will just have to watch the show to find out.”
A This Morning spokeswoman said: “I understand he can't make it. He may be doing a video message.”
Reader views (7)
Brilliant show John Leslie was great and should of been in the studio for Fern.
- Joy, cornwall
i would just like to say a sad goodbye to one of the verry best tv presenter ive ever watch in my whole life u will sadly be missed by millions of fans and the show will not be the same again good bye and good luck for the furture from robert thomas duffy from stanley county durham
- Robert Duffy, county durham
John Leslie was one of the best on This Morning.
John Leslie has been cleared and should be offered the chance to come back. He was found not guilty . In any event he has paid very dearly for his mistake.
This country seems to be awash with nastiness and lack of conscience until of course it relates to themselves.
- Maureen Oakley, Westerham, Kent
isn't it about time itv wake up. John Leslie was there at the beginning and should have been allowed to come to the studio. You could see Fern would have like him there at the reaction to his video message. Charges were dropped but there is still trial by media
- Francesg, scotland
Isn't there anyone there who can say 'no'...?
- Helen, Reading
It takes one to know one.
- Edwin, beaconsfield buckinghamshire
Who is Fern Britton ? Or is it Pern Cotton ?
- Keith Price, Luton, England
