Holly Willoughby has spoken candidly about the lasting impact of the plot to kidnap and murder her, revealing it has fundamentally changed her perspective on life. The former This Morning presenter, 45, told Grazia magazine that she no longer fears public opinion or failure after learning about Gavin Plumb's plan. Plumb, 39, who had an 'unhealthy sexual obsession' with Willoughby, was sentenced to life in prison in July 2024 with a minimum term of 16 years for plotting to kidnap, rape, and murder her.
No Fear of Public Opinion
'When something like that happens, suddenly everything else gets put into perspective, and you know what? I don't fear what people think because I know what real fear feels like,' Willoughby said ahead of the launch of her new YouTube channel, Together. 'This shouldn't be scary. This should be something really enjoyable. If it doesn't work, it doesn't work. But you have to have a go. What's the other option? Just sitting scared and never doing a thing again?'
Resilience and Empathy
The former Dancing on Ice star also said she has learned she is 'very resilient' following the case but emphasized she won't let it define her. Describing that period as a 'really difficult time,' she explained that it made her realize life will 'keep throwing challenges at her.' Instead of letting it consume her, she treats it as another 'lesson learned.' 'It's another life experience that adds another layer and makes you a bit more empathetic to other people in similar situations,' she said. 'Everything in life teaches you something, and I definitely had a hard lesson to learn. I'm not going to sit here and go, "I'm so strong now", because I'm not, but I'm stronger in many ways.'
New YouTube Channel Launch
Willoughby's new channel, Together, will launch on July 28 and cover fashion, beauty, health, and general life advice. She said she feels 'less pressure' working on the project now that people will find her rather than being forced on them by TV bosses. The channel will release two episodes per week from its premiere on YouTube, digital streaming platforms, and across social media.
Departure from This Morning
Willoughby left This Morning in 2023 after Plumb was sentenced. In a statement at the time, she said: 'I have let ITV know today that after 14 years, I will not be returning to This Morning. 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.' Before her departure, she had faced criticism from viewers over her long-standing relationship with co-star Phillip Schofield, who admitted to an 'unwise but not illegal' affair with a younger colleague. After the affair became public, Willoughby condemned Schofield, saying she felt 'shaken, troubled, let down, and worried.'
