Holly Willoughby announced her shock departure from This Morning on Tuesday evening, after 14 years.
In a statement shared to Instagram on Tuesday evening, the popular presenter 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.”
“Most of all, thank you to the wonderful viewers. You’ve been so loyal, so supportive and the very best company every day,” 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 it’s 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,” she added, before signing off with, “Holly.”
According to new odds by BonusCodeBets, Holly’s co-star Alison Hammond is the current favourite to permanently replace her.
A BonusCodeBets spokesperson said: “Holly Willoughby first began presenting This Morning in 2009 and will now permanently step away from hosting duties on the daytime show, leaving a seat on the blue sofa vacant for a new name.”
“Alison Hammond is the current evens favourite according to the bookies, with Josie Gibson next in the betting at 2/1.
“Outsiders for the role include 33/1 shots Davina McCall and Mel Giedroyc, while a return for Ruth Langsford is also 33/1 and Judy Finnigan is 50/1 to make a comeback.”
Check out the full odds below:
- Alison Hammond – Evens
- Josie Gibson – 2/1
- Rochelle Humes – 10/1
- Lisa Snowden – 16/1
- Amanda Holden 25/1
- Davina McCall 33/1
- Mel Giedroyc 33/1
- Ruth Langsford – 33/1
- Sue Perkins – 50/1
- Judy Finnigan – 50/1
