NEWS
After facing a backlash while hosting This Morning, insiders say Alison Hammond is leaning on pal Holly Willoughby
She’s TV’s current goldengirl, but Alison Hammond has already had her taste of the darker side of fame after being forced to make a public apology earlier this month, following the unprecedented backlash she received for voicing her “devastation” over the news that singing along to musicals in theatres had been banned.
The TV presenter, 48, was thrust into the firing line after debating the controversial ban – sparked when a “mini riot” broke out during a performance of The Bodyguard in Manchester – with her co-host, Dermot O’Leary, 49.
Alison said, “[Theatre staff] are regularly walking up and down the aisles before the performance and during the interval with ‘No Singing’ signs. I mean, I can’t believe it, I’d be devastated.”
Her comments sparked a wave of explosive rows online and vicious backlash, which then forced the star to issue a remorseful apology on Instagram, saying, “After reflection and the comments I made on Wednesday’s show I want to apologise to anyone who I offended – especially the incredibly talented theatre performers, who I have the utmost respect for.
“I had no idea the level of disruption audiences were causing and tried to make light of the topic on Wednesday’s show, and for that I’m truly sorry.”
Her celeb pals, including Rylan Clark, Strictly’s Karen Clifton and Les Dennis, flocked to offer their support to the mum-of-one amid the fallout in response to her comments.
INFURIATED
A-listers also waded in – with Ted Lasso star, Hannah Waddingham, writing, “And you very much do use your platform for good my friend. Always. Love you for this. Utter class. Sending you a squeeze.”
Now insiders tell Closer how her close pal and This Morning colleague, Holly Willoughby, 42, has stepped up to help Alison fight back against the haters.
The source says, “Holly’s infuriated by the unnecessary onslaught Alison has received by simply voicing her comments over being able to enjoy herself at a live show – something everyone has done.
“She feels extremely protective of her – especially in light of what she’s been through personally over the last few weeks – and has vowed to stand by her in a bid to help her fight back. They have a secret pact to speak up for each other and Holly will ensure she doesn’t become a target for any more backlash from the haters.”
SUPPORT
Holly rallied to support the former Big Brother star last month following a terrifying all
