This Morning crew ‘relieved’ after Holly Willoughby’s shock exit as show makes ‘fresh start’ without her
THIS Morning staff have admitted feeling "relieved" over Holly Willoughby's decision to quit the show.
It was revealed last week that Holly had immediately stood down as the presenter after 14 years.
Her shock exit came after an alleged kidnap plot against her was foiled.
It was the latest blow for Holly, who's suffered the year from hell following queue-gate and her feud with co-host Phillip Schofield, who had an affair with a younger employee.
However, it wasn't just the main stars who were affected by the show's setbacks.
According to those working at the ITV show, there were repercussions for those behind the cameras as This Morning was put under massive scrutiny.
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"It's been a hell of a year for This Morning," an insider told The Sun.
"It's understandably taken a toll on the crew who have to work through some pretty tense and miserable times.
"When it was announced Holly would no longer be returning, everyone working backstage breathed a sigh of relief.
"It felt like finally they can get some normality back at work, having spent the last 12 months with morale at its lowest in years.
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"The staff all still believe in This Morning and are rooting for its success.
"They're all looking forward to fresh faces coming in and for the show to finally get back on track."
Holly announced she was leaving the show days after Gavin Plumb was charged with plotting to kidnap her.
Plumb, 36, is accused of contacting a US “hitman” as part of a plan to snatch the mum-of-three.
The 35-stone shopping centre security officer appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court last Friday to face charges of soliciting to commit murder and incitement to commit kidnap.
Cops are understood to have found found chloroform, cable ties, a blindfold and ropes at Plumb’s home when raiding it last week.
Plumb is due to appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on November 3.
Holly announced her This Morning departure in a statement, which read: "I have let ITV know today that after 14 years, I will not be returning to This Morning. 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.I will not be returning to This Morning.
"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.
"Richard and Judy said 'we only look after this show, it will always belong to the viewers'.
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"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. Holly."