Holly's 'swift exit' after stressful time

After a tough few months, Holly Willoughby surprises This Morning viewers with a quiet goodbye amid speculation she may not return to the programme

- Eve Macdonald

Following Phillip Schofield’s dramatic departure from This Morning nearly two months ago, Holly Willoughby has been subjected to a furious public backlash and constant rumours about her quitting the show.

Last week fans were left shocked when they discovered the embattled presenter had already secretly left the programme for her usual summer break, without saying her usual goodbye. In previous years Holly, 42, and Phillip, 61, had always announced they were taking their holiday together before giving a friendly sign off.

One online commentator said, “That seems like a strange strategy – unless she isn’t coming back.” Another added, “It’s a bit rude to say nothing. I suspect she won’t be back – she will find another opportunity over the summer months.”

To add to Holly’s recent trauma, the heartbroken star announced in an emotional post last week that her mother-in-law had died. The star wrote, “Sleep well Sandra… Nonna, Mother, Sister, friend… To know her was to know strength itself.” She went on to say, “I see your strength everyday in our children… Be at peace… Love you.”