Stand-in host Richard Madeley had a rather awkward exchange with reality star Christine McGuinness on Good Morning Britain today.
During a debate about greeting with a kiss on the cheek, Richard made a bit of a blunder when he told model Christine, who is married to comedian Paddy McGuinness, she must have men coming on to her.
The presenter, who is filling in for Piers Morgan, left 31-year-old Christine rather baffled by his comment.
Christine appeared on the show to argue that greeting the European way shouldn’t be ditched, amid talk of the changes Brexit could bring.
But Richard and guest Ellen Scott argued that Brits should stick to an old-fashioned handshake during social meetings.
Richard told Christine: “Christine, you’re here to say that it’s great.
“But there must have been times when men have approached you for, you know, the kiss, and it’s not innocent. They want to get close and personal?”
A surprised-looking Christine then replied: “No, not at all. I’m married, I’ve been with my husband for 12 years. And I think that’s quite clear.”
Richard, 63, then blurted out: “I wasn’t talking about you, I was talking about them!”
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But the mum-of-three didn’t agree, and replied: “I know but I don’t think men would even approach me in that way.”
She added: “Greeting someone, I think it’s lovely to give them a kiss and a cuddle. I think it’s a really nice, warm welcome.
“I hug my accountant! I always do I can’t help it. I don’t see a problem in it. It’s a nice thing to do.”
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Richard continued by blaming his age on his lack of desire to be tactile.
He said: “I remember when people started to hug and kiss. When it started to happen it all felt a bit odd. Like we were copying the French and Italians.
“I’m sorry to sound xenophobic but it’s not a naturally British thing to do.”
But Christine insisted she is friendly to everyone.
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