Ranvir Singh: ‘We’ll eat Easter eggs on the beach!’
GMB’s political editor, Ranvir Singh, reveals her Easter plans, her views on Trump, and how her son is her personal stylist…
TV presenter and mum-of-one Ranvir Singh, 39, took on the new post of political editor for ITV’s Good Morning Britain in January, and her warm, chatty approach has proved a breath of fresh air amidst the confusion and craziness of the Brexit vote and the Trump presidency. The Preston-born journalist, who now lives in London with her four-year-old son, Tushaan, tells best about her amazing new job, plus her friendly approach to the role of political reporter…
Congrats on the new job, Ranvir! How’s it going?
It was manic initially, but I’ve settled in well. On my first day – a 27-hour shift – I got on the Prime Minister’s plane to Philadelphia. The press had a private ‘ huddle’ with her, and next day we were face to face with Donald Trump. Because of the time difference in Washington, I was on air at 1am in the freezing cold – for the next two-and-a-half hours!
Is it hard to stay fresh and alert in challenging circumstances?
You just have to power on through. Trump’s election was so exciting, but I had to confess on air that I’d been awake for over 24 hours and was knackered. That’s the good thing about Good Morning Britain – it’s so warm and conversational, you can say these things on camera. It’s what I’d say to my friends.
Do you think you attract viewers that might have previously thought, ‘I don’t do politics’?
Hopefully. Someone said to me, ‘Ranvir, you’ve made me as interested in politics as I am in Kylie’s love life!’ I was chuffed. I’ve always been fascinated by the human drama of politics. I come at it from a viewer’s point of view, and I’m not afraid to go, ‘Right, three-line whip – this is exactly what it means…’
Any thoughts on PM Theresa May – and President Trump?
Theresa May is very likeable; eager to get on with the job. There’s very little showmanship or ego. Trump really understands how to play his audience. He’s the prime example of how far an unshakeable self-belief can take you – lots of people would have crumbled, given the controversy he’s faced so far. It was fascinating to be at a press conference with them both. The body language between them was so warm, but it could have been so awkward – him all brash and her the opposite!
How about the PM’s fashion sense?
She’s using her position to take British brands such as LK Bennett and Amanda Wakeley around the world. If she’s going to get constant comments about what she wears anyway, good on her.
Has your own oncamera style evolved?
It’s easier now I’m on the
road! All I need is a nice coat and a nice scarf.
How do you de-stress after the day job?
As part of my new routine of getting up at 2.30am – oh, yes! – I now love a workout class called Body Pump. I sleep better after it so, no matter how tired I am, I try to squeeze a class in most evenings. My mind’s always busy, but for that hour I don’t have to think.
Where does your work ethic come from?
Mum did shift work in a factory. She could be out at 3am or working till 10 at night. I’m a grafter, like Mum. A great attitude to work is one of the best things you can hand down to your children.
You could be working away a lot. Will that be tricky with a young son?
I do have twinges of guilt, but none of my female friends reckon they’ve nailed this working-mum lark. Tushaan and I spend good quality time together, though, and as long as he’s happy, I’m happy. At 6.30pm, instead of watching kids’ shows, he checks out the news when I’m on ITV!
He’s news-savvy, then…
Totally. In class recently, they were talking about exploring the world. Later, the teacher told me Tushaan said, ‘I’d go to Syria and Iraq – so I can help all the sad people.’ We have these big conversations at home. We have a great life – he’ll benefit from what I do.
What does Tushaan say about your job?
Mainly, his opinions are on what I should be wearing! It’s like, ‘Mum, can you wear the red dress today?’ or, ‘Can I choose your earrings?’ He’s like my little personal stylist.
What are you two doing over Easter?
We’re taking advantage of Parliament being in recess and going to Tenerife for some sunshine. Hopefully, we’ll be eating Easter eggs on the beach on day one!
Ranvir Singh is Good Morning Britain’s political editor, weekdays on ITV from 6am