The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Dundee boy, 10, enchants This Morning presenters
Michael lives his dream meeting favourites Phil and Holly
A Dundee boy’s dreams came true when he was invited to star on This Morning and meet presenters Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby.
The heartwarming appearance by 10-year-old Michael Glaister came after the youngster asked for a This Morning mug.
The presenters were clearly enchanted with Michael, who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at age two and learned to speak by watching the programme.
Willoughby even took to social media to say Michael was one of her “all-time favourite guests”.
The Kingspark pupil asked for a This Morning mug in a film clip posted to the TV show’s Facebook page last week.
Michael’s mother, Charlene Anderson, said the family received a call from the show’s producers on Saturday morning inviting them down to the studio in London.
Michael’s condition affected his social interactions and he did not speak until about two years ago.
He now pretends to host his own “Michael Glaister Show” using tips he has picked up from watching This Morning.
Charlene said: “He was more excited after the show than before. When I told him it was a little surreal for him I think.
“It was brilliant and everyone there did all they could to make it a good experience for us.
“We missed our flight home by one minute and they even put us up for another night.”
She said the star presenters were great with Michael.
“He’s chuffed that he got to see them. I’ve told him about all the reaction online and what Holly said but he isn’t really bothered by what other people say. He’s just happy that he got to meet them and that he can watch the clip on YouTube.
“He got autographs from them as well and he won’t be apart from them. He even had kept them on his pillow at night.
“I think I’m going to have to get them laminated in case they get ruined outside in the rain.
“It was good seeing him so happy on the show and seeing his wish come true.”
The wannabe presenter had a natural rapport on set with the daytime TV hosts.
He was given a hamper of gifts from the show and appeared giddy with laughter as Phillip gave him the This Morning cover from his iPad.
The segment ended with Michael hugging the stars.
Holly and Phillip looked emotional as he embraced them both and said thank you.
Holly could be heard saying during the embrace: “You are so lovely. So, so nice to meet you.”
She later tweeted: “The best cuddle from one of my all time favourite guests ... Michael.”
Phillip said “bless your heart” as they hugged.