Celebrities React to Holly Willoughby Quitting ITV’s "This Morning"

Holly Willoughby has officially quit ITV's "This Morning", the award-winning daytime TV show that she has fronted for the last 14 years. The mum-of-three posted the news onto her Instagram on 10 October after being absent from the show since the previous Thursday. Her statement thanked the staff, crew, and guests who she has worked with over the years.

"Most of all, thank you to the wonderful viewers. You've been so loyal, so supportive and the very best company everyday," Willoughby wrote. She also referenced previous cohosts Richard and Jude and declared that there are many chapters left for "This Morning". "Sadly, however, I now feel I have to make this decision for me and my family," she ends the post.

The 42-year-old had been pulled from the show last week and placed under police guard at her home with her family after a man was charged with soliciting to commit murder and incitement to commit kidnap. The terrifying ordeal has kept Willoughby off air, with Alison Hammond and Josie Gibson stepping in to cover her place on the iconic sofa.

Celebrities and friends took to social media to respond to the shock news. "This is a very sad day!! Love you," commented Hammond, while cohost Dermot O'Leary added, "Nothing but love and respect for you and yours. X" TV presenter Laura Whitmore wrote, "You do what's best for you. Look after yourself lovely Holly. You light up any screen you're on xxx," and her friend, Spice Girl Emma Bunton, commented, "Lots of love gorgeous girl."

On the 11 October episode of "This Morning", Rochelle Humes and Craig Doyle opened the show by addressing their colleague's decision. They spoke of their respect for the broadcaster, about how it would have been a very difficult decision, and that she will always be part of the "This Morning" family.

It's been a tumultuous year for the TV host. Her friend and cohost Phillip Schofield sensationally resigned from "This Morning" at the beginning of summer after his affair with a younger runner was made public. Willoughby addressed the situation live on the show in June, saying: "I imagine you've been feeling a lot like I have: shaken, troubled, let down, worried for the wellbeing of people on all sides of what's been going on, and full of questions."

Willoughby launched her own company, Wylde Moon, in 2021, and regularly works with brands including Marks & Spencer and Garnier. She is still thought to be presenting"Dancing on Ice" from January. While our weekdays might not look the same, putting her and her family's safety first is of the utmost importance.