This Morning viewers in tears as autistic superfan hugs heroes Phil and Holly

This Morning viewers were left in tears today as an autistic superfan "stole the show".

Michael Glaister caught the attention of the show when he sent in a message from his home in Dundee asking for a branded mug.

The 10-year-old, who was diagnosed with autism as a toddler, couldn’t speak up until two years ago.

His mum Charlene Anderson praised This Morning for helping her son find his voice.

Michael, who dreams of being a presenter, got to meet his heroes Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield.


He presented an opening link to his segment with the This Morning titles change to read "The Michael Glaister Show".

Holly said he was "much more professional" than them, while Phillip joked that he would take over his job when he’s 18.

His mum Charlene Anderson said: “He was non-verbal until a few years ago. Just by role playing and pretend play and pretending to present and watching the shows he enjoys. Acting it out [has really helped him].”


Michael received the This Morning mugs he craved, which were the actual ones that Holly and Phil were using on the show.

He was presented with a brand new tablet, with a This Morning cover, as well as a hamper of goodies.

This included a branded water bottle, signed pictures and cue cards to write notes on.

Excited Michael’s face said it all and he gave Phil and Holly a massive hug to say thanks.


This Morning viewers took to Twitter after watching the emotional segment.

One viewer said: "Michael is making me well up when he hugged Phil and Holly. Wish all people had a bit of Michael to be kind"

Another added: "The little boy was a true star . Got me crying when he cuddled you both at the end"

A third said: "Omg how utterly adorable was that little boy. It made me cry when he hugged Holly and Phil"

*This Morning airs weekdays on ITV at 10.30am

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