Cat Deeley has recently shared her heartfelt gratitude towards Holly Willoughby, especially after stepping into the spotlight as the lead presenter on *This Morning*. This acknowledgment comes with a touch of nostalgia and respect, shedding light on the supportive nature of their relationship.
Holly Willoughby, who was 43 at the time, made the tough decision to leave the ITV morning show last year. Her departure wasn’t just about career choices but was deeply intertwined with personal safety concerns. Amid a shocking scandal involving a plot to kidnap, rape, and murder her, which saw security guard Gavin Plumb sentenced to life imprisonment, Willoughby made the choice to step away for her well-being and that of her family.
Deeley, who shared the screen with Willoughby on the children’s music chart show *CD:UK*, took on the role of co-host on *This Morning* earlier this year, alongside Ben Shephard. This new chapter for Deeley came with its own set of challenges and triumphs. Reflecting on Willoughby’s support during this transition, Deeley shared with the *Sunday Times* how much it meant to her: “Holly sent me a beautiful bunch of flowers and a handwritten card. It was a really classy move, it really touched me.”
The gesture from Willoughby was more than just a kind act; it was a sign of true camaraderie in an industry often marred by competition. Deeley pointed out that, contrary to the narrative of women being pitted against each other, their relationship has been a testament to genuine support. “People always talk about women being pitted against other women, but actually it’s just not true,” Deeley remarked, highlighting the positive side of their professional rapport.
Since stepping into the role, Deeley has found herself under a microscope. The increased media scrutiny and public attention have been intense, surprising even the seasoned presenter. “Everyone keeps checking in with me, ‘Are you OK? Are you handling this all right?'” Deeley noted. Despite the constant check-ins, she remains unfazed by the buzz surrounding her. “I don’t care. I do not care. If it gets too much for me I’m going to quit. I don’t need to do it. I could stop and be a mum for most of the year, and then go and do the shows in America,” she asserted.
Deeley’s resilience is evident. She has spent a significant part of her career hosting the popular US talent show *So You Think You Can Dance*, which has spanned 18 seasons. The contrast between her experience in the US and the heightened scrutiny she faces in the UK is stark. She describes the intense focus as a “very British thing,” implying that the level of media intrusion might be uniquely intense in Britain. “It’s clickbait and really nothing more than that,” she added, suggesting that much of the criticism stems from anonymous online sources that don’t affect her deeply.
In the midst of all this, Willoughby is embarking on new adventures. After leaving *This Morning*, she’s set to host an exciting new Netflix show where adventurer Bear Grylls will track down celebrities in the jungle. This new gig is sure to be an adrenaline-packed ride, showcasing Willoughby’s versatility and resilience. Additionally, she will be co-hosting the ITV gameshow *You Bet!* alongside Stephen Mulhern, who replaced Phillip Schofield on *Dancing On Ice*. It’s clear that Willoughby continues to make waves in the entertainment industry, seamlessly transitioning to new roles with a fresh energy.
For those eager to keep up with the latest and greatest in entertainment, subscribing to newsletters from The Standard is a great way to stay informed. Whether it’s updates on Deeley’s journey or Willoughby’s new ventures, there’s always something exciting on the horizon.
This narrative showcases the dynamic and often challenging world of television presenting, with its highs and lows, personal struggles, and triumphs. Deeley’s experience reflects the ongoing evolution of her career and the ever-present support from colleagues like Willoughby, even in the face of adversity.
Login