Holly Willoughby, the longtime presenter of ITV's This Morning, has told ITV she will not be returning to the show, saying, "I have to make this decision for me and my family."
The news comes in the wake of a man in the UK being charged over an alleged plot to kidnap and murder the presenter.
Posting on Instagram on Tuesday afternoon, she wrote, "I have let ITV know today that after 14 years, I will not be returning to This Morning."
She continued, "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."
Referring to the show's original presenters, husband and wife duo Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan, Willoughby wrote, "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 its 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 finished, before signing her name.
This Morning was hugely affected by controversy involving Willoughby's longtime presenting partner, Phillip Schofield, earlier this summer. Schofield resigned from the show over a controversial relationship with a younger colleague.
Willoughby also presents ice skating reality show, Dancing on Ice, which is due to air in January 2024, with Schofield's replacement not yet announced.
Willoughby's post was received with many comments from viewers and colleagues alike.
Regular This Morning co-presenter Alison Hammond wrote, "This is a very sad day ! Love you 🥰."
Irish chef Donal Skehan, who regularly appears on the show as a cookery contributor, wrote: "Always the most lovely host each and every time I was on with you - thank you for being so sweet over the years and onwards and upwards! Sending lots of love D xx."
Fellow Irish chef and This Morning contributor Clodagh McKenna posted, "Your star will continue to shine everywhere you go ⭐️ You have given us all so much love and light, in front and behind the cameras ♥️ I am so grateful for everything you have given me… I love you so much darling beautiful Holly, the sunshine of our days."
Comedian Joanne McNally simply wrote "Holly" with a series of lovehearts.
