ITV employees who work on This Morning are alleged to be ‘outraged’ by Holly Willoughby‘s farewell.
This week, the TV host announced her resignation in a social media message, confirming that she will not be returning to the show following her choice to leave.
In her message, the 42-year-old wrote: ‘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.’
It’s been reported that several members of the This Morning team were dissatisfied with how Holly’s departure was handled.
The opening montage of Wednesday’s episode featured an homage to Holly, with the tagline ‘Goodbye Holly,’ with co-hosts Craig Doyle and Rochelle Humes paying tribute to her live on-air.
While numerous viewers were perplexed by the show’s beginning, with one calling it ‘cringey,’ it has been reported that staff members were disappointed that there wasn’t a greater celebration for her.
‘The staff really didn’t see Holly’s exit coming. It’s such a huge shame she didn’t get the big send-off she deserved after 14 years on the sofa, but I’m sure they will all celebrate her time on the show privately,’ an insider told OK! magazine.
They continued: ‘The team will miss her so much. Holly is so professional and great at her job, but she is also hilarious.’
The Sun also alleged that This Morning will be completely revamped, with an insider adding that Holly’s decision to go has’sent shockwaves through the corridors of power at ITV’ following a ‘turbulent 12 months’.
‘But the feeling now is that change must be made – and this is the impetus needed,’ they continued.
‘This Morning boss Martin Frizell will continue to lead the charge and is working tirelessly to give viewers what they want – a warm, buzzy, feel-good magazine show, marshalled by two fresh new anchors.’
The source claimed that a variety of presenters ‘from all different walks of life’ will meet with executives over the next few weeks as they strive to find a duo ‘with the perfect chemistry’.
Holly’s remark, which she shared on social media, paid tribute to the fans who had been following her for years.
‘Most of all, thank you to the wonderful viewers. You’ve been so loyal, so supportive and the very best company every day,’ she said.
‘Richard and Judy said “we only look after this show, it will always belong to the viewers”. 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.
‘I will miss you all so much. Holly.’
This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV.
