Holly Willoughbys exit was inevitable as This Morning faces new challenges
Holly Willougby's departure from This Morning has been branded "inevitable" by a PR expert.
The presenter, 42, stepped down from the ITV daytime show earlier today (October 10) after 14 years. While fans were floored by her exit, Broadcaster PR specialist Josh Wheeler saw the move coming.
Josh, who is the founder of the Broadcast Agency Be Broadcast, exclusively told Daily Star: "Holly's departure was inevitable – it was always about when and how. The real challenge for ITV was ensuring they retained talent, both in the show and in Holly herself.
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"Thanks in large part to Holly, This Morning has not only stabilised but could now actually be poised for a transformative evolution. No brand, no matter how iconic, is invincible. Yet, This Morning is an institution that deserves to endure.
He continued: "But now is the time for big thinking. It needs to get in and amongst its audiences and one way would be greater outreach across the nation. BBC Breakfast's shift to Salford proved that talent and guests will move. This Morning should be the voice of every village, town, and city, every single day.
"Now, more than ever, our nation craves connection, insight, and mutual understanding. This Morning could uniquely position itself to bridge these gaps putting the audience front and centre. Challenging? Absolutely. But the word 'impossible' only holds weight until it actually done."
Josh concluded: "Such a transformation not only rejuvenates This Morning but also preserves its rich legacy, placing the audience at the very heart of its mission."
Holly announced she had quit This Morning with an emotional statement shared on her Instagram. Her exit from the show comes after a 36-year-old man was charged with soliciting to commit murder over an alleged plot to kidnap the TV presenter.
The mum-of-three was pulled from the show last week and confirmed today that she will not be returning. ITV's managing director of media and entertainment Kevin Lygo recognised Holly as "the heart" of This Morning and confirmed they will miss her "enormously."
A number of Holly's friends and co-stars paid tribute to the presenter following her decision, with Alison Hammond branding today a "very sad" day, while Vanessa Feltz wrote: "We will miss you so very much my darling," followed by a heart emoji.
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