Richard Madeley 'replaces' Ben Shephard on This Morning after disappearance

Good Morning Britain host Richard Madeley appeared on another ITV show on Wednesday morning (May 15) after Ben Shephard 'disappeared'. The presenter, 68, stopped by This Morning to chat co-hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard about his new book.

But the GMB star, who used to present the ITV morning programme alongside his wife Judy Finnigan between 1988 to 2002 prior to Holly and Phil, ended up taking the reins once again. This Morning viewers have been used to seeing Cat and Ben front the programme together since they were made permanent hosts in March this year.

The duo host the show every Monday to Thursday whilst Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary continue to present their usual Friday show. But today, Richard had to temporarily 'step in' after Ben was nowhere to be seen.

READ MORE: Ben Shephard breaks silence on This Morning ratings 'dip' since takeover with Cat Deeley

Welcoming viewers for the first time in over two decades, Richard said: "Welcome back to your Wednesday's This Morning, with me Richard Madeley and Cat Deeley here. There's a lot more coming up for you on the programme today. How's your morning been so far? ".

But soon enough, Ben made a swift return to set, prompting Richard to move back to the guest area as he joked: "Madeley, go on. To the other side of the sofa."

Alluding that he'd been caught up in a toilet mishap, Richard then shot back at Ben and said: "Don't spend so long in the loo then," as Cat Deeley chimed in with a laugh: "We all got a Madeley warm-up."

Richard and Judy Finnigan made a comeback for the show's 21st anniversary in 2009 and again in 2013 to mark its 25th year, reports the Mirror. This Morning took a nostalgic turn as it opened with the original music and titles, featuring