Holly Willoughby launches YouTube series after leaving ITV
Holly Willoughby is returning to the public eye with a new YouTube series titled Together, marking her departure from ITV, where she had been a prominent figure for two decades, reports BritPanorama.
The series, which is set to air twice a week, features Willoughby presenting in a more relaxed and relatable style, diverging from her previous high-profile television roles. In a promotional trailer, she is seen engaging in various activities, including trying on casual attire and making sausages. This contrasts sharply with her prior image as a polished daytime television personality, as seen on This Morning.
Adopting the YouTube platform is seen as a significant pivot, given the potential for high revenue through advertising on popular channels. Willoughby is said to have complete creative control over Together, a position that could allow her to shape the content freely. However, experts caution that transitioning her audience from traditional television and social media might prove challenging, particularly as her fanbase primarily engages through other platforms.
The entire series has been pre-recorded, a departure from the live format of This Morning, which generated viewer engagement through spontaneity and live interactions. Critics suggest that the pre-produced nature of Together may lead to a perception of a less authentic experience, contrasting sharply with the dynamic elements that captivated audiences during her time on daytime TV.
Willoughby’s previous stint on television has not been without controversy. Her public image took a hit after her involvement in the “queue-gate” scandal, where she and her co-presenter were accused of skipping the line to view the late Queen Elizabeth II lying in state. This incident, combined with the subsequent fallout from her former co-host Phillip Schofield’s dismissal due to personal controversy, has arguably impacted her standing in the public eye.
Despite these challenges, Willoughby maintains a presence in the industry, expressing her desire to continue engaging with an audience. Interviews surrounding the launch of Together reveal her intent to demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity, stating, “If it doesn’t work, it doesn’t work. But you have to have a go.”
As the launch date approaches, questions remain about her ability to reconnect with viewers after a hiatus. While Willoughby has earned a reputation for her engaging hosting style, there are concerns that her new venture may come off as overly curated and self-indulgent, risking her reinvention as a relatable figure.
Together starts on YouTube on Tuesday 28 July.
