Hosts of The One Show Patrick Kielty and Alex Jones were forced to move apart after viewers complaints over coronavirus social distancing.
The pair began the show sitting in their usual spots, but were soon scolded by viewers who were less than impressed they were not setting an example.
Shortly before the programme Prime Minister Boris Johnson said he expects the tide to be turned in the fight within 12 weeks, urging the public to follow social distancing advice and for businesses to “stand by your employees”.
Shortly after the programme began, Alex addressed the watchers at home to explain they were taking heed as Patrick - who stepped in for usual co-host Matt Baker, who is currently self-isolating at home - moved further away, reports Manchester Evening News.
Alex said: “Now we are getting a lot of emails about social distancing and the fact that we are quite close together.
"We hear you, we have moved apart.
“It’s just hard to break habits, isn’t it? We’re so used to sitting [close together]. But yes, you are absolutely night.”
Many complaints about social distancing were also posted on Twitter.
One said: “Immediately after a Government message about the Coronavirus, these two are on the sofa next to each other. Great job promoting social distancing.”
A second posted: “No social isolation on the one show . Alex and patrick practically sitting on each other. Even #gmb sitting apart.”
A third wrote: “No social distancing on #TheOneShow. Come on @BBCTheOneShow !! Show some leadership. At least one metre between people, but preferably two metres.”
A fourth agreed: “Oh my goodness please use social distancing.”
Another ranted: “The One Show - BBC. Come on guys - lead by example and do the social separation thing FFS!!!”
The One Show airs weekdays from 7pm on BBC.
