ITV bosses are reportedly clambering to put a new deal on the table for Holly Willoughby amid fears the popular presenter could quit This Morning. Her two-year contract is set to expire in December, however renewal negotiations have not started yet, the Mirror reports.
Sources say the broadcaster is concerned Holly, 42, may step back from the role after being left "devastated" by the Queuegate scandal last year, when her and This Morning co-host Philip Schofield received significant criticism after being accused of skipping the miles-long queue to see the Queen lying in state at Westminster Abbey.
Holly is said to have been "frustrated" by how ITV handled the controversy, and was dismayed with their decision that she make the apology on behalf of the pair alone. A source said: “The Queuegate backlash was absolutely devastating for Holly, but what made matters worse was the feeling it was mishandled.
“ITV ’s decision to remain silent before finally issuing a statement was frustrating, as it felt like they were shutting the door after the horse had bolted. Then, to add insult to injury, Holly was left to explain the pair’s decision by herself, while Phil remained silent.
She was left hurt by the situation, as it was felt that she bore the brunt of criticism. “Bosses know last year was incredibly hard for her and as such, they are not approaching her contract negotiations with the same confidence as they have previously.”
Alongside This Morning, Holly also hosts Dancing on Ice with Phillip, and has a seven-figure deal with Marks & Spencer and her own lifestyle brand Wylde Moon. Last night, a source close to Holly said she had "no plans" to leave This Morning.
An ITV spokesman said: “We don't comment on speculation around artists’ contracts.”
