Holly Willoughby is set to return to her hosting duties on This Morning next week as planned. The mum-of-three is scheduled to present the ITV daytime talk show on Monday, following her extended half-term break.
It comes amid co-host Philip Schofield's exit a little over a week ago following rumours of a rift between the duo. The 61-year-old resigned May 20, not long before admitting to having an affair with a younger This Morning colleague, which led to him being dropped by his talent agency and ITV.
The last day Phil and Holly hosted This Morning together was May 18 - just two days prior to Phil's exit. A statement released by ITV at the time confirmed Holly would remain and continue presenting the show alongside fellow This Morning stars.
READ MORE: What happens next for Philip Schofield, ITV and This Morning?
It added Phil would be leaving with "immediate effect", but would still fulfil his commitment to host the British Soap Awards and a new prime time series. However, after Phil later revealed the rumours of the "unwise" but "not illegal" affair were true - despite an investigation in early 2020 - ITV took back its decision and he was stripped of his Prince's Trust ambassador title.
When Dermot O'Leary and Alison Hammond paid tribute to Phil last week, they told viewers when to expect Holly back. Alison opened the show by saying: "Now we can't start today's show without paying tribute to the man who has spent the last two decades sitting on this sofa – Phillip Schofield."
Dermot added: "Everyone on and off the screen at ITV and This Morning want to say a huge thank you to Phil for what he's done to make this show a success over the last 21 years." Alison continued: "Quite simply we all know he's one of the best live television broadcasters this country has ever had and we, and all the team, wish him all the best for the future."
In regards to Holly's absence at the time, Dermot explained: "Holly is taking a break over half term, she'll be back in the studio in two weeks." Despite the scandal, a source close to Holly has confirmed she will return to the ITV programme as planned on Monday.
Speaking to The Sun, a source said: "She has made it clear she was one of the people Phil lied to and she has nothing to hide. She will return to This Morning as planned on Monday and carry on like the professional she is.
"Holly has been affected by Phil’s actions and it has been very difficult. She is devoted to This Morning however and will continue to do the best job she can for them."
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