James Martin emotional as he marks milestone on ITV Saturday Morning

by · Birmingham Live

James Martin was overcome with emotion on his ITV weekend cookery show James Martin's Saturday Morning as he marked an impressive 300 episodes on air this Saturday (December 21).

Since its inception in 2017, the acclaimed chef, aged 52, has become a fixture for viewers on their Saturday mornings, delivering delicious recipes and hosting a variety of celebrity friends.

On today's episode, James graced our screens alongside household names such as TV personality Fern Britton and soap legend Adam Woodyatt, we well as esteemed chefs Richard Corrigan and Daniel Clifford.

Launching into the programme with gusto, James announced: "Good morning and welcome to our 300th, yes 300th episode of James Martin's Saturday Morning here on ITV1."

He was visibly emotional after the surprise (Image: (Image: ITV))

A chorus of cheers followed the milestone acknowledgement before James proceeded to tease the packed show ahead: "300 we got there and what a show we've got lined up for you today. I'll be serving a classic steak recipe and a dish of Cumberland sausages for a great friend of mine."

Nevertheless, it was the unexpected arrival of Fern Britton bearing cupcakes emblazoned with James' likeness, that unveiled the host's softer side, reports the Express.

Caught off-guard by the sweet gesture, an emotional James queried, amidst the festive surprise: "What are you doing? I knew this was a set up because I could see everyone whispering."

He received a huge round of applause, and Fern immediately chimed in, saying: "Congratulations on 300 shows." James expressed his gratitude, responding with: "Thank you very much."

James Martin has presented 300 episodes of his ITV show (Image: (Image: ITV))

Fern and James shared a warm hug, and Fern playfully teased: "How old are you now, 45 and a half?" as James glanced around the room before sheepishly replying: "Umm yeah something like that."

Fern quipped again: "I was being kind." Addressing the viewers at home, James expressed his heartfelt thanks for their loyalty over the years, saying: "On behalf of the entire crew, I just want to say thank you for watching and thank you for 300 shows."

He continued: "When ITV initially asked if we could do a Saturday morning show, I said no, I'll try six, but to still be here and have reached 300 shows, I'm absolutely thrilled and grateful to the entire crew, as well as the fantastic guests who appear on the show."

James Martin Saturday Morning airs from 9.30 on ITV and ITVX