Viewers of ITV’s Lorraine show have slammed Friday morning’s segment on luxury advent calendars as being “detached from reality” amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
The controversial feature, presented by Strictly Come Dancing’s Amy Dowden, showcased several high-end calendars with prices reaching £195.
While the segment claimed to offer options for “every budget”, many viewers expressed outrage over the inclusion of multiple calendars costing well over £100.
The backlash erupted on social media shortly after stand-in host Christine Lampard, 45, appeared impressed by the festive offerings displayed on Friday’s show.
The White Company’s luxury calendar, priced at an eye-watering £195, was the first item presented during the segment.
A deluxe calendar from Rituals followed at £114, while a beauty advent calendar from No7 was shown with a hefty price tag of £131.25.
The show did attempt to provide more affordable options, with Amy Dowden showcasing a Revolution calendar for £30.
A Nivea Men’s advent calendar was also featured at £25, representing the lower end of the price range.
However, these budget-friendly alternatives did little to quell viewers’ frustration over the more expensive offerings.
Taking to X, viewers were quick to voice their frustration with the expensive calendars.
“F***ing ITV flogging advent calendars for over 100 quid when pensioners are freezing, this mob have they ever been more detached from reality,” wrote one viewer.
Another commented: “These Advent calendars are insane. Hundreds of pounds for products that no one needs and many of which will be wasted in packaging.”
“What happened to the couple of £ chocolate advent calendars? Who pays over £100 for one,” questioned another viewer.
“Back in my day an advent calendar was a cheap thing with a Christmas-themed picture behind, now here are some at £200, madness. So much for a cost of living crisis,” a fourth penned.
During her appearance on the show, Amy Dowden expressed disappointment about missing this weekend’s Strictly Come Dancing Blackpool Special.
Speaking to Christine Lampard, the Welsh dancer recalled her emotional connection to Blackpool, saying: “It’s the goal, everybody wants to make it to Blackpool and there’s something so special about being there.”
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Dowden was forced to withdraw from this year’s Strictly competition due to a foot injury, with her partner JB Gill now dancing with Lauren Oakley.
Despite her setback, Dowden remained positive about her former partner’s prospects, stating: “I’ve seen the Quickstep and everybody’s in for a treat and there’s more tens coming.”