Lorraine Kelly welcomes back returning co-star to ITV show after lengthy break

Lorraine Kelly made a heartwarming return to our screens on Tuesday (September 17) morning, and it wasn't long before she warmly welcomed her colleague back after his summer hiatus.

Entertainment guru Ross King, aged 62, had taken some time off from the popular ITV breakfast programme for a well-deserved break during the summer season.

Upon his comeback, Lorraine greeted him with open arms, saying: "Ross is here all morning. Ross we have missed you, how was your holiday? ".

The LA-based correspondent, clearly delighted to be back, responded: "Aw thank you, it's lovely to see you in the pink."

He went on to share details of his vacation, mentioning that he flew to Paris to attend the wedding of a friend, reports the Mirror.

He shared: "Lucky I headed to Paris to see my old pal David Stewart get married to the lovely Betsey. David is the son of the legendary Allan Stewart, who has just been in the West End and you know him well so it was great to be there. It was great to see the Eiffel Tower."

In a touching moment, Ross also took the opportunity to congratulate Lorraine on becoming a grandmother, following the birth of her daughter Rosie Kelly Smith's baby girl. Rosie, 30, and her fiance Steve White named their daughter Billie Kelly Smith-White.

At the time, Lorraine expressed her joy in a sweet message, confident that the new parents would be nothing short of excellent.

During a heartfelt conversation with Lorraine Kelly about her new grandchild, Ross King revealed: "What made my trip was I got some lovely pictures from you and Rosie of the baby. Granny. The picture of Billie waving at me made my holiday."

Humour ensued as an image popped up onscreen showing the iconic Hollywood sign altered to read 'Billiewood' prompting Ross to quip: "I don't know if you know this because obviously I see this sign everyday but look at this the Hollywood sign has changed."

Lorraine couldn't contain her amusement and exclaimed: "As it should be. That's brilliant, I love that. It's great to have you back."

In a charming twist, Ross surprised Lorraine on air with a thoughtful present for baby Billie, saying: "I've got a present for you, a little present there for you in the studio."

A delighted Lorraine responded: "Oh but you've already given me a present when you turned Hollywood into Billiewood."

She then showcased a baby grow emblazoned with 'Billiewood' which she gratefully accepted, saying: "Oh gosh this is great. You know what she is so tiny, this will fit her soon. Thank you so much. Thank you, thank you."

Lorraine airs weekdays on ITV1 at 9am