ON HER EMOTIONAL FAREWELL TO ‘THIS MORNING’
VOWS TO PUT FAMILY FIRST AS SHE LEAVES THE FAMOUS SOFA AFTER 14 YEARS
Almost every morning for more than a decade, viewers have been greeted by the cheery smile of one of the nation’s favourite TV presenters.
But last week Holly Willoughby shocked fans and industry insiders alike – according to reports, ITV bosses were told only hours before – when she announced on Instagram that she was quitting ITV’s This Morning. The star said it was a “difficult goodbye” but that she was making the decision “for me and my family”.
Holly, 42, had not been on air since pulling out of the show the previous Thursday, after a man was arrested in connection with an alleged kidnap and murder plot.
In an emotional statement to her eight million followers, she made no reference to this, simply saying: “I have let ITV know today that, after 14 years, I will not be returning to This Morning.”
The presenter, who has three children with her husband, TV producer Dan Baldwin, 48, continued: “It’s been an honour 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.”
She also thanked ITV and the show’s viewers, adding: “I will miss you all so much. To everyone who has ever worked on the show over the years, thank you so much.
“This is such a difficult goodbye, you are incredible and I forever will be proud of what we have done together.”
LOVE, BEST WISHES AND RESPECT
Her co-presenters were quick to respond, with Alison Hammond replying to her Instagram post with: “This is a very sad day! Love you.” Dermot O’Leary added: “Nothing but love to you and yours.”
The opening credits of the first show without her carried captions such as “End of an era”,
“Family co
