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Presenter Holly Willoughby considered leaving This Morning "weeks" ago, according to an insider who claims she already had discussions with ITV bosses.
The 42-year-old left the nation stunned when she announced that she had decided to step down from the show after 14 years at the helm. Although not confirmed in her statement, many believed her reason for leaving was because of an alleged kidnap plot, while others claimed it could be to do with the fallout with former presenter Phillip Schofield.
But according to a television insider, Holly was already in talks regarding her departure. Talking to The Sun, the source claimed: "This was an incredibly hard decision for Holly but, in all honesty, she hasn’t been truly happy at work since the fallout with Phil. Seeing him hung out to dry has been hard and took its toll.
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"Fourteen years in any workplace is a long stretch, and she has been considering other opportunities over the summer. The time to leave feels right — albeit under the darkest of circumstances."
The source also claimed that TV executives "obviously wanted her to stay but said they would completely support her decision". They also stated that there had been "a lot of tears over the past few days".
On Tuesday (October 10), Holly released a statement which confirmed her exit. She wrote: "I have let ITV know today that after 14 years, I will not be returning to This Morning.
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"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.
"I will not be returning to This Morning. Thank you to 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."
Holly then went on to mention former presenters Richard Madeley and Judi Finnigan. She continued: “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."
The news comes after a 36-year-old man was charged over an alleged plot to kidnap and murder Holly. Gavin Plumb, from Potters Field, Harlow, was charged with soliciting to commit murder and incitement to commit kidnap.
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- Holly Willoughby
- ITV
- This Morning
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