Holly Willoughby has spoken about the trusted friends who have helped her through difficult times in recent years. The television presenter, who left ITV's This Morning in October 2023, has relied on a close circle of famous pals, including Nicole Appleton, Emma Bunton, and Christine Lampard.
Support from Her Girl Squad
Last week, Holly paid tribute to her group of friends after they enjoyed a lunch date in London. The gathering also included Shiarra Bell, Vice President of Artist Relations at Universal Music. Holly shared a video on social media set to the Sex and the City theme tune, captioning it: "As Carrie Bradshaw said… They say nothing lasts forever; dreams change, trends come and go, but friendships never go out of style. Love my girls."
Plans for a Comeback
Holly is reportedly planning a return to television with a new YouTube channel. The channel will feature a show called Together, produced by her husband Dan Baldwin's company Hungry Bear. Reports suggest she also plans to sell clothes through the channel, which is expected to launch later this year.
A source close to Holly said: "Holly has had a really tough time, what with leaving ITV and the ordeal with her stalker. But one thing she has relied on is her friends. They are a very close-knit group and she has survived because of their support."
Friends Who Understand Fame
The source explained that different friends play different roles in Holly's life. "While Nicole might be the one Holly turns to when she wants to let her hair down, Emma and Christine are her go-tos for life and career guidance. Emma and Christine really know about the ups and downs of fame, how the public can love you or hate you. Emma is a great example of forging a new career on her own terms, which Holly finds inspiring."
Holly stepped down from This Morning five months after her former co-host Phillip Schofield quit amid scandal. She also left ITV's You Bet! after one series, and Dancing on Ice was rested last year. Aside from fronting Netflix's Celebrity Bear Hunt, she has been largely absent from screens.
Party Animal Behind the Scenes
Despite her clean image, Holly is known for enjoying parties. Former Celebrity Juice co-host Keith Lemon once called her a "party animal," and Piers Morgan described her as a "very dangerous" drinking buddy. Her friend Nicole Appleton and sister Natalie are said to be only a phone call away for a night out.
"She's very close with the Appletons, who are good fun and cheer her up," the source added. "She's trying to keep positive and surround herself with good mates, making sure she sees them often and has fun."
Judging by her smile at the recent lunch, Holly is thriving with the support of her friends.
