Holly Willoughby's new YouTube show 'Together' has received largely negative reviews, with critics calling it an "empty gush fest" and comparing it unfavorably to Meghan Markle's Netflix series.
The former This Morning presenter, 45, launched the online lifestyle channel on July 28. The first episode featured Willoughby cooking with actor Stanley Tucci and was criticized for its 50-minute runtime.
Critical Reception
The Telegraph gave the show one star out of five, writing: "With Love, Meghan is a masterpiece compared to this borefest – the Duchess of Sussex a veritable Anthony Bourdain." They added that the show "makes it clear that she is a presenter who works best with a tight script and an autocue."
The Times awarded two stars and said Willoughby "gushed too much," quoting the exchange: "'You're amazing,' she told Tucci. 'No, you're amazing,' he replied." The paper concluded it "will have to become edgier than this to make its mark in a very crowded field."
Mixed and Negative Reviews
The Guardian gave three stars and said the show "comes off as an aggressive audition for whether Willoughby is allowed to be famous again," while noting that the best moments come when she stops trying to "violently rebrand herself." The Mirror also awarded three stars, saying the show has potential to improve and that interaction with the crew, including her husband Dan, helps it feel organic.
The i paper was more negative, suggesting Willoughby may struggle to build a YouTube audience because she "never built" a highly engaged fanbase. They wrote: "The public either wants honest, unfiltered imperfection or glamour and something to aspire to. Willoughby still hasn't decided which she wants to be."
Background
Willoughby fronted ITV's This Morning for 14 years but stepped down in 2023, months after co-host Phillip Schofield left after admitting to an affair with a young male colleague. Holly Willoughby Together will release two episodes per week and is available on YouTube, streaming platforms and social media.
