Holly Willoughby opens up about a "difficult year" following Phillip Schofield's exit from This Morning

Addressing the ups and downs

Holly Willoughby has finally broken her silence about the challenging year she has had, filled with "ups and downs," following the departure of her former This Morning co-star, Phillip Schofield. Earlier this year, Schofield, Willoughby's longtime best friend and co-star, was dropped from the show and ITV after admitting to an affair with a much younger male colleague. At the National Television Awards on Tuesday, Willoughby spoke openly about the tumultuous months in an interview with The Celeb Report, while dressed in a stunning lilac dress at London's O2 Arena.

Rallying support and looking towards the future

During the interview, Willoughby expressed her gratitude for the support she has received. She said, "What's lovely is people rallying around you. The support is there. People want us to do well. It all feels good again. I just want the future to continue as it is. We are very blessed we have a great team of people." Willoughby also acknowledged the warm reception from fans, saying, "Everybody has been so lovely tonight and everyone is so happy to meet you. I mean, you're in their living room every day; it's not like meeting someone from Coronation Street."

Not recognizing the world of talk

Speaking about the rumors and speculation surrounding the show, Willoughby made it clear that she did not want to speak on behalf of others, saying, "For me personally, I don't want to speak on behalf of other people, it's a world I don't recognize." She emphasized her focus on the positive aspects of her work, saying, "I look around and see the team getting ready and giving it all. I just want to come to work and have more of that."

A solo appearance at the NTAs

This year's National Television Awards marked Willoughby's first attendance without her former co-star, Phillip Schofield. However, the evening was not without its awkward moments, as This Morning was reportedly booed by fans at the ceremony.

Phil's unfollow and negative comments

Rumors of tension between Willoughby and Schofield further surfaced when Schofield unfollowed her on Instagram. Following this, Willoughby posted a lengthy message on the platform about "releasing negativity" and embracing "new beginnings."

Back to work, mixed reviews

After her seven-week summer break, Willoughby returned to This Morning this week. However, her comeback received mixed reviews from fans, with some criticizing the show's "worst opening ever."

Changes in the lineup

During Willoughby's absence, several stand-in presenters, including Josie Gibson, Craig Doyle, and Andi Peters, filled in. Alison Hammond will also soon be replaced by Craig as the popular Irish anchor takes the reins.

Overall, Holly Willoughby expressed her hope for the future of This Morning, stating that she wants it to "continue as it is" and highlighting the importance of the show's "great team."