Ill Paul misses HIGNFY

Merton's first sick day in 18 years

Paul Merton has missed this week’s recording of Have I Got News For You after picking up a kidney infection.

His absence from yesterday’s taping marks the 51-year-old’s first day off sick from the quiz in 18 years. Frank Skinner stepped in as a replacement.

An insider told The Sun said: ‘Paul loves filming the show and really tried to avoid taking the day off. It’s only a minor infection but he was too sick to film the show.’

The show, to be aired tonight, was hosted by Jack Dee.

Ian Hislop once recorded an episode of the quiz moments before being rushed to hospital with acute appendicitis.

Earlier this week, Merton was spotted in the public gallery of the House of Commons, watching Prime Minister's Questions.

Published: 21 Nov 2008

Live comedy picks

We see you are using AdBlocker software. Chortle relies on advertisers to fund this website so it’s free for you, so we would ask that you disable it for this site. Our ads are non-intrusive and relevant. Help keep Chortle viable.