Holly Willoughby bids a heartfelt farewell to her long-standing role on ITV’s “This Morning.” In a statement shared on her Instagram, she expressed deep gratitude and admiration for everyone who has been a part of the show’s journey over the years.
“To everyone who has ever worked on the show over the years, thank you so so much. This is such a difficult goodbye; you are incredible, and I forever will be proud of what we’ve done together,” Willoughby emotionally stated in her Instagram post. “Thank you, everyone at ITV, for being supportive. To every guest who has sat on our sofa, thank you. Most of all, thank you to the wonderful viewers. You’ve been so loyal, so supportive, and the very best company every day.”
Willoughby’s decision to leave “This Morning” comes at a tumultuous time. Just days prior to her announcement, a man was charged with an alleged plot to kidnap her. Notably, Willoughby did not reference this situation in her statement. Since the news of the alleged plot broke, she has not appeared on the show.
Holly Willoughby (Credits: @hollywilloughby/Instagram)
Reflecting on her time on “This Morning,” Willoughby expressed, “It’s been an honor to just be part of its story, and I know this story has many chapters left to go. Sadly, however, I now feel I have to make this decision for me and my family. I will miss you all so much.”
The BBC reported that a 36-year-old man from Essex has been charged with allegedly “soliciting, encouraging, persuading, endeavoring to persuade, or proposing to a third party” to kidnap and murder Willoughby. The shocking news deeply affected the “This Morning” team, with an ITV spokesperson stating, “This news has come as a huge shock to everyone at ‘This Morning’ and ITV. We are providing all the support we can to Holly and her family at this incredibly distressing time.”
The departure of Holly Willoughby is yet another significant change for “This Morning.” Earlier in the year, her former co-host, Phillip Schofield, resigned after admitting to allegations that he had an affair with a younger employee of the show. The program has undoubtedly faced its share of challenges in recent times.
As Holly Willoughby bids adieu to “This Morning,” the show and its loyal viewers will undoubtedly remember her contributions with fondness, and her absence will mark the end of an era in morning television.
