A former BBC Breakfast star temporarily stepped in to host the Channel 4 programme with Simon Rimmer.


Tim Lovejoy and Simon Rimmer usually host Sunday Brunch together (Image: Channel 4)

Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch returned this week but with a new hosting temporarily stepping in to replace Tim Lovejoy.

Joining Simon Rimmer on the morning programme was former BBC Breakfast star Steph McGovern.

As the hosts introduced the panel, including Al Murray, Robert Sean Leonard, Sandra Yi Sencindiver and Rudimental, the former Steph’s Packed Lunch presenter admitted she was “a bit nervous” to fill Tim’s shoes.

“Good morning and welcome to Sunday Brunch live on Channel 4, I am Simon Rimmer,” Simon began.

“And I am not Tim Lovejoy, but I am Steph McGovern,” his new co-host shared.

“Tim’s having a bit of a lie-in,” Simon revealed, continuing: “How lovely to have you on the show.”


Simon Rimmer was joined by Steph McGovern on Sunday Brunch (Image: Channel 4)

Steph replied: “It feels weird, doesn’t it? For you, is this like bring your friend to work day? It feels a bit like that! Normally we’re drinking!”

Simon said: “I feel a bit responsible because we’re proper mates outside of telly, and I used to do your show, Steph’s Packed Lunch. But it’s very nice to have you today.”

When he asked Steph if she was nervous, she revealed: “I am a little bit nervous! Because I know what you’re like, but it’s lovely to be here.”

Viewers were delighted to see Steph, with one writing: “Yay Steph is presenting today you’ll smash it girl.”


Steph admitted she was “a bit nervous” for the new role (Image: Channel 4)

Steph presented BBC Breakfast from 2011 before moving to join Channel 4 for her own programme in 2019.

However, Steph’s Packed Lunch came to an end in December 2023 when Channel 4 announced it was axed.

She said at the time: “I’m not going to waffle on because I can’t say anything emotional without doing that ugly crying.

“But thank you for watching, thank you for everyone who’s been on the show.

“I’ve loved it, and I am glad you have to. That is all from us here in Leeds. Look after yourselves, and goodbye!”


Steph previously presented BBC Breakfast before moving to Channel 4 (Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images for Cha)

She added on social media: “This time last week – the final @packedlunchc4 team pic (not everyone is in it, but it’s a good chunk of us).

“It’s been nearly 5 years since the show idea was pitched to me (I was battling pregnancy sickness and 3am starts on BBC Breakfast at the time).

“The dealbreaker for me (after money [sic]) was that the show had to be authentic and reflect the real lives of our viewers AND our workplace had to make everyone feel welcome….whether you were with us for an hour or 4 years.

“I am so proud of what our amazing team achieved so please allow me a moment to blow their trumpet……


Steph’s Packed Lunch came to an end in December 2023 (Image: Channel 4)

“In 4 years – we turned a pub in Leeds Dock into a cracking TV studio (after starting the show in my house in lockdown), we employed loads of people from the local area (with many having never worked in telly before), we promoted talented people quickly, we provided work experience to countless people of all ages in all parts of the show (many of them getting jobs from this too) and we gave lots of people their first break presenting on the telly too.

“We built a Northern powerhouse. And on top of that we put out 675 episodes, got a BAFTA nomination, gave a voice to people/topics that other programmes didn’t and had a proper laugh along the way.

“Thank you to everyone who made that happen and of course to all of our fabulous viewers who were a crucial part of our dysfunctional family too. The messages we’ve had from you have been incredible. Thank you.”