Susanna Reid has shared her thoughts on Holly Willoughby's decision to step down from This Morning.
The Good Morning Britain presenter, 53, spoke about Holly's “challenging” time leaving This Morning after learning of an alleged plot to kidnap and murder her.
Susanna said in her comments that she believed Holly would still return to television before it was officially confirmed that Holly would return to present Dancing On Ice.
Speaking to woman&home for the February issue, Susanna said: “Holly [Willoughby] made her decision, and who can blame her? It was a very challenging thing to deal with and deal with.
“I've seen her very occasionally because even though they're in the studio next door, they're running at a different time.” While I've seen her over the last year, she's been her typical, normal, smiling, radiant, happy and strong self.
Susanna Reid has shared her thoughts on Holly Willoughby's decision to step down from This Morning
Susanna's candid comments came as she spoke to woman&home for the upcoming February issue
Susanna said in her comments that she expected Holly would still return to television before it was confirmed that Holly would return to host Dancing On Ice
“She's an extraordinary, smart, funny, brilliant presenter and I don't get the impression that she won't be coming back to TV. “She's a huge presence and will be back.”
Web has now exclusively revealed that Holly will be returning to the screen to host Dancing On Ice alongside Stephen Mulhern.
The series begins on January 14, almost three months after learning of the alleged plot to kidnap and murder her.
Gavin Plumb, 36, has pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit murder and conspiracy to kidnap Holly. The security guard remains behind bars after being denied bail.
During a short hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court, Gavin Plumb, from Harlow, Essex, who was not present, had a bail application refused. His trial date is set for June 24 next year.
Susanna also spoke about the rotation of presenters hosting This Morning following Holly's exit, and ITV's sacking of Phillip Schofield after he admitted lying about a romantic relationship he had with a former younger colleague.
Speaking about the show, Susanna said: “Whoever takes over on This Morning is going to have a great time.” It's an absolutely legendary program and I'm sitting next to Richard Madeley, who started the show in 1988 with Judy Finnigan.
“It’s such a successful program and it matters who presents.” [it]but the main ingredient is the audience.”
Presenters including Alison Hammond, Dermot O'Leary, Josie Gibson, Craig Doyle, Cat Deeley, Rochelle Humes and Rylan Clark have hosted This Morning in recent weeks.
The Good Morning Britain presenter, 53, praised Holly as “extraordinary” after the star quit her job on This Morning (pictured on the show) after learning of an alleged plot to kidnap and murder her had
Susanna also spoke about the rotation of presenters who have hosted This Morning, saying they will have a “brilliant time” on the show (pictured: Craig Doyle and Cat Deeley).
Susanna also spoke on TV about how she has embraced aging with grace, saying she feels she has become more “confident” in her fifties
She gushed: “I'm literally not afraid of getting older.” I think every day is great and now that I'm in my 50s I feel like I've developed a thick skin and at the same time a very – hopefully – loving, “I am a sensitive person.”
As well as chatting to the magazine, Susanna also caused a stir with a series of stylish photos
Susanna also spoke on TV about how she has embraced aging with grace, saying she feels she has become more “confident” in her fifties.
The presenter said: “Women, particularly on television, fully accept aging with dignity, which means we don't fight it. “We embrace it, welcome it and enjoy it.
“All the women on Good Morning Britain always look better than us.” We have a brilliant styling team, but it's also a question of attitude. It's like no one is afraid of aging, so live with it instead of fighting it.
“I'm literally not afraid of getting older.” I think every day is great and now, in my 50s, I feel like I've developed a thick skin while being a – hopefully – loving, sensitive person.
“People often talk about imposter syndrome, but when you’re in your 50s you know what you’re doing and that gives you more confidence.”
The February issue of woman&home is available on Thursday, January 4, 2024.