Following her dramatic exit from This Morning, Holly Willoughby is reportedly set to joining a reboot of one of the most popular shows in the 90s.
Recent months have brought a whirlwind of turbulence to Holly Willoughby's life and career. The beloved TV presenter made headlines when she dramatically bid farewell to her long-standing role on This Morning after 14 years, citing an alleged kidnap attempt as a key factor in her decision. However, her departure from the show was not the only dramatic event to shake the channel and her world.
Holly Willoughby's ITV exit
Holly Willoughby, 42 years old, surprised her fans when she announced her departure from This Morning on social media. Her decision came in the wake of a turbulent period at the show, following her former co-host Phillip Schofield's admission of a relationship with a younger male colleague. Holly expressed that it was an 'honour to be part of its story' but felt compelled to make this decision 'for me and my family.'
Prior to her exit, This Morning was embroiled in controversy as her co-host, Phillip Schofield, revealed an illicit affair with a younger male colleague. What made this revelation even more shocking was the fact that Holly Willoughby had been kept in the dark about the situation. This bombshell not only strained their professional partnership but also had personal implications, as Philip's daughters subsequently unfollowed Holly on Instagram, signifying a strained relationship.
In the midst of these emotional and professional tensions, Holly Willoughby is now reportedly being considered for her television comeback.
This heartfelt farewell resonated with viewers and colleagues alike, with fellow presenters Rochelle Humes and Craig Doyle expressing their admiration for her contributions to the show.
Her departure has led to speculation about her next career move, with reports suggesting that she may be joining Bradley Walsh and his son Barney on the BBC's revival of the iconic series, Gladiators.
BBC's interest in Holly Willoughby
Following Holly's departure from This Morning, the BBC has reportedly set its sights on her to host the second season of Gladiators. The original series, which aired from 1992 to 2000, featured hosts like Ulrika Jonsson and John Fashanu and gained immense popularity. Now, it is reported that the BBC wants Holly Willoughby to become the 'new Ulrika Johnson' – host of the original 1990s version of the endurance show, which initially aired on ITV.
A BBC source stated, 'The BBC love Brad and Barney, but it's also been proved Brad and Holly have an amazing dynamic as they featured together on the Beeb show Take Off.' This dynamic duo's chemistry on their previous collaboration has made Holly a prime candidate for hosting the rebooted Gladiators.
The tabloid’s insider continued:
Since Holly’s departure from This Morning, lots of channels and broadcasters have been thinking about what she could bring to their shows. And as she’s such a big star, she’s a natural fit for a huge entertainment show – which the reboot of Gladiators unquestionably is.'
The BBC is willing to let the dust settle on Holly's This Morning exit and allow the first series of Gladiators to air before initiating formal discussions. The source said:
'The Beeb will let the dust settle on her This Morning exit, and for the first series to run, before kicking off talks. But she’s an obvious choice to become the new Ulrika.'
Holly Willoughby's potential involvement in the Gladiators reboot reflects the BBC's ambition to replicate the success of the original 1990s series. This iconic show, which featured ordinary individuals competing against elite athletes in various physical challenges, is poised to offer family entertainment and nostalgia for a new generation of viewers.
The return of Gladiators with Holly at the helm would be a significant television event. Holly's popularity as a TV presenter and her previous collaborations with Bradley Walsh make her a natural fit for a high-profile entertainment show like Gladiators.
Holly Willoughby's career trajectory
Holly Willoughby's career has been marked by her success as a TV presenter. She joined This Morning in 2009 and presented alongside Philip Schofield until his departure earlier this year. She also hosts Dancing on Ice for ITV, showcasing her versatility and broad appeal to audiences.
Holly Willoughby's husband, Dan Baldwin, 48 years old, has established a close connection with the BBC through his company, Hungry Bear, responsible for producing the revived Gladiators. Additionally, he has been instrumental in the success of Michael McIntyre's Big Show, which has been a hit on the BBC since 2015, and the launch of the 47-year-old comedian's The Wheel game show in 2020.
Read more:
⋙ This Morning will be undergoing major changes after Holly Willoughby's resignation
⋙ This is how Richard Madeley reacted to Holly Willoughby's shocking departure from This Morning
⋙ Holly Willoughby: What happened to the man who allegedly wanted to kidnap her?
⋙ Holly Willoughby is taking a 2-month long break from This Morning after tragic news
