# Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary Break Down in Tears on Live TV Paying Tribute to Late Colleague
On April 17, 2025, the set of ITV’s *This Morning* was filled with raw emotion as hosts Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary broke down in tears while paying tribute to their late colleague, Matthew Lock. The 19-year-old, affectionately known as Matty, tragically took his own life in 2023, leaving behind a legacy of infectious enthusiasm and a passion for gadgets that had endeared him to the *This Morning* team. The heartfelt segment, which featured a conversation with Matthew’s parents, Christine and Richard Lock, not only honored his memory but also shed light on the challenges of living with ADHD, a condition Matthew had been diagnosed with. This article explores the emotional tribute, the conversation about Matthew’s life and struggles, and the broader impact of his story on raising awareness about mental health and ADHD.
## A Tearful Tribute to a Beloved Colleague
The *This Morning* segment began with Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary visibly moved as they introduced the topic of their late colleague. Matthew Lock, who had worked as a contributor to the show, was remembered for his vibrant personality and unique passion for vacuum cleaners and mechanics. Alison, struggling to hold back tears, said, “We absolutely adored your boy, we loved him, didn’t we?” Her words were echoed by Dermot, who added, “He just had this passion and enthusiasm. He had funny bones, he was kind, he was caring. We didn’t get to meet him an awful lot, but he was a breath of fresh air when he came into *This Morning*.”[](https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/tv/mornings-alison-hammond-dermot-oleary-35074358)
The hosts’ emotional response resonated with viewers, many of whom took to social media to express their admiration for the genuine compassion displayed. One viewer wrote on X, “Alison and Dermot’s tribute to Matty Lock was so heartfelt. You could feel their love for him through the screen.” The segment was not just a moment of mourning but a celebration of Matthew’s spirit, which had left an indelible mark on the *This Morning* team despite his brief time with the show.
## Matthew Lock: A Life of Passion and Sensitivity
Matthew’s parents, Christine and Richard Lock, joined the show to share memories of their son and discuss their ongoing campaign to raise awareness about ADHD. Christine described Matthew as someone who “would help anyone, he would talk to everybody in the community—young, old.” She highlighted his caring and sensitive nature, noting that these traits, while beautiful, could also be linked to ADHD. “That can sometimes be an ADHD trait. That you can be overly sensitive, basically emotional dysregulation can come into it,” she explained.[](https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/tv/mornings-alison-hammond-dermot-oleary-35074358)
Matthew’s love for gadgets, particularly vacuum cleaners, was a defining aspect of his personality. His enthusiasm had been so infectious that it led to appearances on *This Morning*, where he shared his knowledge and charm with the audience. Dermot lauded this passion, recalling how Matthew’s energy lit up the studio. The *This Morning* team had previously paid tribute to him on social media after his passing, writing, “He was a delightful young man, a joy to work with and his passion for vacuum cleaners and general mechanics was infectious.”[](https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/tv/mornings-alison-hammond-dermot-oleary-35074358)
However, Matthew’s life was not without challenges. Diagnosed with ADHD, he faced emotional and behavioral struggles that are common among those with the condition. His parents’ appearance on *This Morning* aimed to highlight these challenges, emphasizing the need for greater understanding and support for individuals with ADHD.
## The Link Between ADHD and Addiction
A significant portion of the segment focused on the connection between ADHD and addiction, a topic that hit close to home for Matthew’s family. Alison raised a sobering statistic, noting, “The craziest thing is that adults are three times more likely to use drugs or have a drug issue or alcohol. Our Matthew did struggle with that, didn’t he?” Christine confirmed that Matthew’s struggles began around age 17, while Richard elaborated, “Within the ADHD, 50 percent of people find some sort of addiction—whether that be gambling, drugs, alcohol, social media. All of those things play into that.”[](https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/tv/mornings-alison-hammond-dermot-oleary-35074358)
The conversation took a particularly poignant turn when it was revealed that Matthew had struggled with alcohol and ketamine use, issues that were documented in the inquest following his death in October 2023. The toxicology report presented at the hearing confirmed the presence of both substances in his system, and it was noted that Matthew had declined help for these challenges. His death was officially ruled a suicide, a devastating outcome that underscored the complexity of his struggles with ADHD and addiction.[](https://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/breaking-morning-pays-emotional-tribute-35071885)
Christine and Richard’s openness about their son’s challenges was a powerful moment, shedding light on the often-overlooked link between ADHD and substance abuse. Their campaign aims to educate the public about these risks, advocating for better resources and support systems for those affected. Richard’s comment that “there are a lot of people who are struggling in that area but they just don’t know that it’s linked to ADHD” highlighted the importance of awareness in preventing similar tragedies.[](https://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/breaking-morning-pays-emotional-tribute-35071885)
## The Emotional Impact on *This Morning*
The tribute to Matthew Lock was a rare moment of vulnerability for *This Morning*, a show known for its mix of lighthearted segments and serious discussions. Alison and Dermot’s tears reflected the genuine bond they had formed with Matthew, even if their interactions were limited. Their emotional response also mirrored the broader grief felt by the *This Morning* team, who had been shocked by Matthew’s sudden passing in 2023. The show’s official statement at the time expressed condolences to his family, noting, “His family came to the studio and they were so proud that he’d turned a childhood hobby into a career.”[](https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/tv/mornings-alison-hammond-dermot-oleary-35074358)
For Alison, the segment may have been particularly personal. Having lost both of her parents in 2020, she has been open about her experiences with grief on *This Morning*. In a 2021 episode, she broke down in tears while discussing the loss of her mother with guest Joey Essex, saying, “I lost my mum as an adult, but it killed me.” Her emotional connection to stories of loss and struggle likely amplified her response to Matthew’s story, making the tribute a deeply affecting moment for both her and the audience.[](https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/showbiz-tv/alison-hammond-breaks-down-tears-20724614)
Dermot, too, has a history of heartfelt moments on the show. His close friendship with Alison, often highlighted by viewers and colleagues, has been a cornerstone of their *This Morning* tenure. In February 2025, Dermot posted a touching tribute to Alison on her 50th birthday, calling her “one of the finest humans I know” and praising her ability to “make the world a better place, one smile at a time.” This camaraderie was evident during the Matthew Lock tribute, as the hosts supported each other through their shared grief.[](https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/tv/mornings-dermot-olearys-heartfelt-tribute-30940027)
## Public and Viewer Reactions
The segment sparked an outpouring of support from viewers, many of whom praised Alison and Dermot for their authenticity. Posts on X reflected the sentiment, with one user writing, “Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary breaking down over Matty Lock shows how much he meant to them. Such a sad story, but their tribute was beautiful.” Others commended the Locks for their courage in sharing Matthew’s story, with one viewer noting, “Raising awareness about ADHD and addiction is so important. Matthew’s parents are doing incredible work in his memory.”
The tribute also prompted discussions about mental health and the stigma surrounding ADHD. Viewers shared personal stories of loved ones with similar struggles, emphasizing the need for better education and resources. The *This Morning* segment, amplified by the Daily Record’s coverage, reached a wide audience, furthering the Locks’ mission to honor their son’s legacy.
## The Locks’ Campaign and Matthew’s Legacy
Christine and Richard Lock’s appearance on *This Morning* was part of their broader campaign to raise awareness about ADHD and its associated challenges. By sharing Matthew’s story, they hope to destigmatize the condition and encourage others to seek help. Their advocacy work focuses on educating communities about the emotional dysregulation and addiction risks that can accompany ADHD, as well as promoting early intervention and support.
Matthew’s legacy also lives on through the memories of those who knew him. His passion for gadgets and his kind, caring nature continue to inspire, as evidenced by the *This Morning* team’s fond recollections. The show’s decision to dedicate airtime to his story reflects its commitment to addressing serious issues, even amidst its usual mix of lifestyle and entertainment content.
## Conclusion
Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary’s tearful tribute to Matthew Lock on *This Morning* was a powerful moment of television, blending personal grief with a broader message about mental health and ADHD. Their emotional response, coupled with Christine and Richard Lock’s candid discussion of their son’s life and struggles, created a segment that resonated deeply with viewers. By honoring Matthew’s memory and highlighting the challenges of ADHD, the *This Morning* team not only paid tribute to a beloved colleague but also contributed to an important conversation about awareness and support. As the Locks continue their campaign, Matthew’s story serves as a reminder of the impact one person can have and the importance of compassion in the face of loss.
