Holly Willoughby is set to miss This Morning for the foreseeable future, an alleged kidnap and murder plot against her was revealed.
The presenter was due to appear on the show on Thursday morning, but had to pull out at the last minute after being placed under 24-hour police protection.
A source has since told The UK Mirror: “Holly has been left distraught by the news. This has been an absolutely horrible week for her.”
“At the moment she really is getting through things hour by hour. Her absolute priority is her own safety and that of her family – who are supporting her through this incredibly difficult time.”
“There has been no discussion about when, or if, she will return to the This Morning sofa. No decisions have been made about that.”
“But given the terrifying things she has learned this week, the question of returning to work could not be further from her mind,” the insider added.
According to the publication, police alerted This Morning bosses to an alleged kidnapping plot against on Thursday morning, October 5.
Holly is said to have been informed shortly before she was due on air, leaving her “distraught”.
Alison Hammond filled in for the TV personality at the eleventh hour alongside Josie Gibson.
On Wednesday night, a 36-year-old man was arrested by police who allegedly found “sinister messages” threatening to kidnap and “seriously harm” Holly.
Gavin Plumb, a security guard at the Pinnacles Shopping Centre in Harlow, Essex, appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Friday accused of offences – including soliciting to commit murder and incitement to commit kidnap.
The publication has reported that Mr Plumb was found in possession of weapons and had contacted a hitman in the US to kill Holly.
He spoke only to confirm his name and address, and has been remanded in custody and will appear before the city’s crown court on November 3.
Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary opened Friday’s show with a heartfelt message supporting Holly.
Dermot said: “We’re not going to talk much about it but we have to start with the story of one of our own.”
Alison added: “We are obviously all shocked to hear the news and we want to send our love and biggest hugs to Holly and her family.”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also appeared on today’s This Morning, where he shared his thoughts on the situation.
The politician said he was “so sorry to hear about everything that is going on with Holly”, stating “I wanted to send my best to her and her family and to all of you.”
Dermot and Alison responded positively, saying: “We appreciate that. And she will appreciate that as well.”
