This Morning star Ben Shephard interrupted the show to bring viewers some “breaking” baby news alongside his co-star Cat Deeley – who wasn’t surprised at the news
Ben Shephard halted This Morning to update fans on some “breaking” baby news after the list of popular baby names landed—a must-read for any expectant parents looking for inspiration.
According to the Tipping Point star, 49, Olivia proved yet again to be one of the most popular names for little girls, and for boys, Muhammed took the top spot.
Ben said: “Now then, breaking naming news. The UK’s top baby names have been revealed. Olivia is the most popular name for baby girls in England and Wales for the eighth year in a row.”
He added: “Amelia and Isla came in second and third,” as Cat announced that Muhammed had topped the boys’ list.
She said to viewers: “Muhammed knocked Noah off the top spot, having been the most second popular name the year prior.”
“I’m in the top 100,” confirmed the former Good Morning Britain star, prompting Cat to respond: “Are you?” He told her: “Yeah, Benjamin came in at 53rd on the list.”
Cat wasn’t entirely sure that taking the 53rd spot should be awarded with a round of applause as Ben carried on, adding: “There’s some bad news for Catherine’s though, you didn’t make the top 100.”
“I’m just rare; I’m like a rare exotic bird,” hit back the ex-SMTV live star. Ben replied with concern: “I think you’re going the same way as the Nigels. There were only 78 Catherines named last year.
Ben was concerned about the name Catherine
Cat and Ben had been discussing the data published on 5 December by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) for 2023, which revealed that Olivia was the most popular name in five regions across England and Wales, with Mohammed taking the top spot in four out of nine regions.
The report indicated Noah had now slipped to second place on the list. Muhammad had been the second most popular boys’ name in 2022 after ranking up from fifth place in 2021 but has been a top ten staple since 2016.
Ben confirmed that his name had made the top 100 list of popular names
Ahead of the official data being announced, there had been lots of hype about vintage names making a comeback. Baby name consultant Colleen Slagen, working in partnership with baby retailer JoJo Maman Bébé, predicted that classic baby names would be popular in 2025.
Colleen said: “Look out for Margot in 2025 as people are looking for feminine, classic-sounding [names like] Margot, Eloise, and Vivian. I think we’ll start seeing more traditional male names being chosen for girls such as Drew, Noah and Dylan.”
This Morning airs weekdays on ITV1, from 10am.
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