Holly Willoughby has been spotted enjoying a sunny holiday in Portugal with her family as the This Morning scandal continues. The 42-year-old presenter was pictured drinking pints on the beach just days before her scheduled return to the ITV programme on Monday.
In photos obtained by the Mirror, Willoughby was seen in a black swimming costume and dark denim shorts, wearing a white sun hat. She was also photographed carrying a bottle of water and ice lollies for her family. The mother of three has been absent from This Morning since Phillip Schofield's sudden departure.
Schofield, 61, admitted to having an affair with a younger male colleague on the show and has since cut ties with ITV. After his admission, Willoughby stated: 'When reports of this relationship first surfaced, I asked Phil directly if this was true and was told it was not. It's been very hurtful to now find out that this was a lie.'
Despite calls for her resignation, a source told the Mirror that Willoughby has no intention of stepping down and hopes to 'ride out the scandal'. The source added: 'Holly wants to stay at This Morning as long as she can... The only reason she would leave now is if This Morning is axed.'
ITV has announced that Willoughby will return after an extended half-term break. Speculation continues about potential co-hosts, with names like Stephen Mulhern being approached, though some are reportedly reluctant due to viewer backlash.
