Jeremy Kyle 'utterly devastated' after show cancelled following death of guest Steve Dymond

Following outrage from mental health experts and members of parliament, MPs have also launched an inquiry into reality TV

Jeremy Kyle has spoken out for the first time after the cancellation of his ITV show, following the death of a guest.

The controversial talk show was permanently cancelled by the broadcaster following the death of guest Steve Dymond.

Following outrage from mental health experts and members of parliament, MPs have also launched an inquiry into reality TV.

Kyle told The Sun: ”Myself and the production team I worked with for the last 14 years are all utterly devastated by the recent events. Our thoughts and sympathies are with Steve’s family at this incredibly sad time.”

The Commons Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee (DCMS) will consider production companies’ duty of care to participants taking part in reality shows and explore whether enough support is offered both during and after filming.

ITV has also faced scrutiny over its support for reality show talent following the deaths of former Love Island contestants Sophie Gradon and Mike Thalassitis.

Carolyn McCall, ITV’s CEO, said in a statement: “Given the gravity of recent events we have decided to end production of The Jeremy Kyle Show.”

The Jeremy Kyle Show has had a loyal audience and has been made by a dedicated production team for 14 years, but now is the right time for the show to end. Everyone at ITV’s thoughts and sympathies are with the family and friends of Steve Dymond.”

McCall added: “The previously announced review of the episode of the show is underway and will continue. ITV will continue to work with Jeremy Kyle on other projects.”

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The episode featuring Dymond was due to be aired at 9.30am on 13 May but was replaced at short notice with an episode of Dickinson’s Real Deal.

The Jeremy Kyle Show has been broadcast on ITV since 4 July 2005, having first appeared as a replacement for Trisha Goddard’s chat show.

The tabloid talk show is based on guests attempting to resolve their issues with each other, with topics often related to extramarital affairs, addiction and familial conflicts.