Long Lost Family's Davina McCall reveals Disney-inspired approach to comforting guests
The TV presenter has been hosting the ITV series Long Lost Family since 2011 and gives guests on the show long hugs as she 'doesn't know how much they need it'
Davina McCall has confessed to taking inspiration from Disney's most beloved characters while presenting the heartwarming ITV series 'Long Lost Family'. The 56 year old television favourite, who has been at the helm of the emotional reunion show since its inception in 2011, admits to emulating the likes of Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck by offering prolonged, comforting embraces to the participants she supports.
Speaking to The Sun's TV Mag, which hits stands on Saturday, Davina shared her unique approach: "I know this is quite a weird thing to reference, but at the Disney parks, all the characters give very, very, very long hugs."
She elaborated on her technique, explaining that Disney characters are instructed never to be the first to let go during a hug because the depth of someone's need for that embrace is unknown.
Davina has adopted this philosophy for 'Long Lost Family', stating, "I've slightly taken that with me to 'Long Lost Family'. I just thought, 'OK, I'm in for the long haul. I'm here for as long as you need me.'"
"I know this is quite a weird thing to reference, but at the Disney parks, all the characters give very, very, very long hugs."
Beyond her role in reuniting loved ones, Davina graces our screens annually as a judge on 'The Masked Singer', alongside Jonathan Ross, Rita Ora, and Mo Gilligan.
While the panel plays detective to guess the concealed celebrities' identities, Davina confesses she relishes the surprise element, preferring the thrill of the reveal when she's completely in the dark about who's behind the mask.
She revealed her preference for the unexpected, saying, "If I'm honest, I like not knowing who it is. It's more exciting when someone is unmasked and you have no idea who there are.
"I don't like it when I know 100 per cent who it is. It actually takes the fun out of it for me."
She continued: "It's much more enjoyable when you think, 'Do you know what? I think it's this person, but I am probably wrong.' I like to think what I lack in correct guesses I give in enthusiasm. That's what I bring to the show."
