Holly Willoughby‘s stunning news that she was leaving This Morning may not have come as a surprise after all, given she has hinted at it previously.
Following a difficult year and the resignation of co-host Phillip Schofield, the 42-year-old personality will not return to the ITV daily programme after 14 years.
The ‘cringey’ opening credits in her honour that aired the day following her announcement disappointed many.
While speculation over her replacement rages, ITV executives have promised a substantial overhaul of the award-winning programme.
However, Holly may have told us that she was leaving weeks before she actually did.
While looking stunning on the red carpet at the National Television Awards, the Dancing on Ice host revealed her future on the programme was “uncertain.”
‘I think at the moment, what the future holds, I don’t think any of us yet know,’ she told The Sun.
According to a source, she had chosen to quit weeks before threats forced her to be pulled from set and placed under police protection.
‘You know, it all feels quite new,’ Holly explained when asked about the rotation of the co-presenters.
She continued: But I think it’s like taking it one day as it comes, until something feels right.’
Viewers of This Morning have been enjoying Alison Hammond’s appearances on the show, who walked out with Holly to Mamma Mia in a triumphant comeback.
The former Big Brother star was one of the first to wish Holly well, commenting on her Instagram post: ‘This is a very sad day ! Love you 🥰.’
Holly said in the announcement: ‘I have let ITV know today that after 14 years, I will not be returning to This Morning.
‘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.
‘Thank you to everyone at ITV for being supportive. To every guest who has sat on our sofa, thank you.’
