This Morning viewers outraged over 'cruel' Bridgerton-themed dog segment

Daily Record

2 days ago

This Morning presenters Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley welcomed two guests and their dogs onto the sofa as they were dressed in 'Bridgerton' outfits.
This Morning: Dogs dressed up as Bridgerton characters
Viewers of This Morning expressed their dismay during Monday's programme over a particular segment that left some displeased.
Presenters Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley were at the helm once more for ITV's morning staple following a week-long hiatus.
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During the show, the presenters invited two canine guests and their owners onto the sofa.
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Yet, it wasn't just any visit—the two dogs sported attire reminiscent of Netflix's renowned period drama Bridgerton.
The occasion was to celebrate their accolades at this year's Greenwich dog show, where a novel category, 'Best Bridgerton Lookalike', was featured.
Lola, one of the dogs, clinched the top honour at the event and could be seen in an elegant blue frock complete with a wig crowned by a tiara, held in place by her owner, reports Wales Online.
Alongside Lola was Charlotte, a French Bulldog and runner-up, who donned a pink number accessorised by a blonde wig.
Cat, unable to contain her amusement at the sartorial choices, commenced the discussion with laughter before extending her congratulations.
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Nevertheless, audience members quickly turned to X, formerly known as Twitter, to voice their opinions.
One person reeled: "Poor dressed up dog must be so hot with all that crap on! If you want something to dress up, buy a doll! So cruel! Makes me so angry."
Echoing these sentiments, another added: "Sorry that dog is not happy! #thismorning."
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In agreement, someone else wrote: "I'd suggest, if you have to hold the costume on the dog at all times, it's probably time to stop."
A viewer expressed their frustration, commenting: "ffs this is just ridiculous it's animal cruelty that's what it is..."
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Another chimed in with a critical view: "This show is so twisted. Preaching one minute, the next showing this type of content. Perhaps get Dr Scott on at the same time!"
Further criticism came from someone who posted: "I hate seeing stuff like this encouraged on TV #ThisMorning" Meanwhile, another individual voiced their opinion bluntly: "This is just ridiculous..... Just let you dogs be f****ng dogs and not an attempt to make you relevant."
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On the flip side, there were those who found delight in the segment, as evidenced by a tweet which read: "2 Victorian Dogs. Ah Ha."
During a conversation with Lola's owner, she admitted that the dog had attempted to remove the crown prior to their live appearance, prompting Cat to observe: "She seems very happy! Both of them seem so happy."
The owner responded reassuringly: "Yes, I think she's alright now, she's settled."
Addressing potential concerns from viewers, Ben queried: "There will be people asking, 'Are the dogs happy?' because dressing dogs up can sometimes get some criticism. Are they happy wearing the outfits? She seems pretty unbothered."
To which Charlotte's owner confidently stated: "She's pretty used to wearing clothes in general; when we go out, I tend to dress her up and try to coordinate our outfits."