THE abrupt split of TV duo Eamonn Holmes and Isabel Webster shocked fans this week after trouble secretly brewed behind the scenes.
The Sun can reveal Isabel’s exit from GB News was caused by close relationships on the show turning sour over her working hours.
Isabel had been locked in a secret feud with channel bosses over increasing her days on-screen from three to five a week.
A TV insider told The Sun: “Isabel wasn’t happy that bosses were expecting her to work the full week while Eamonn stays hosting Monday to Wednesday.
“It had become a sticking point in negotiations and was causing tension behind the scenes.
“Eamonn’s obviously the main star of the show and likes to be in charge – he’s now looking forward to working with Ellie who’s a young talent he can help mould as her career progresses.”
Eamonn, 60, was blindsided by his 42-year-old co-host’s axe when negotiation talks broke down on Wednesday.
They had just finished their final show of the year and had plans to celebrate Christmas with their breakfast team.
However, after “refusing to bow to demands”, Isabel was immediately replaced by up-and-coming talent Ellie Costello.
The 31-year-old will work two days more than Isabel – joining Eamonn Monday to Wednesday, followed by Stephen Dixon on Thursday and Fridays.
Eamonn replied to a tweet about Isabel’s sudden departure, saying “Bye my girl x”.
Insiders say it was a “savage” response to Isabel’s sacking days before Christmas – as Eamonn failed to properly pay tribute to her on his social media channels.
Another source told us: “Eamonn wasn’t consulted about the decision, in fact he was totally blindsided – and his new co-host was chosen for him before he even knew Isabel was leaving.
“He and Isabel had their moments as a TV partnership. Eamonn’s a legend in the industry and a king of breakfast telly. It’s always the bigger name who works fewer days on-screen.
“As Isabel has grown more headstrong in her role as Eamonn’s co-host, there have been a few tiffs and clashes over their differing opinions, but all in all they worked well together and are good friends.
“Although, silence speaks volumes and it was quite obvious to some people there wasn’t a gushing post from Eamonn or Isabel about the end of their TV partnership.”
The Sun has reached out for comment.
