Holly Willoughby quits ITV2’s Celebrity Juice after 12 years to spend more time with family
CELEBRITY Juice team captain Holly Willoughby has quit the comedy game show after 12 years.
The TV presenter, 39, who has three children with her producer husband Dan Baldwin, 45, wants to spend more time with her family.
Holly told the ITV2 show’s producers about her decision last week after filming several lockdown editions with host Leigh Francis, 47.
Since launching the panel series in 2008 Holly — mum to Harry, ten, Belle, eight, and Chester, five — has become one of the UK’s most successful female TV presenters.
She fronts ITV daytime show This Morning, alongside Phillip Schofield, 58, and filled in for Ant McPartlin, 44, two years ago on I’m A Celebrity . . . Get Me Out Of Here.
Holly’s decision to quit Celebrity Juice comes after pal and fellow panellist Fearne Cotton, 38, left the series in 2018 to focus on new projects.
A TV source said: “Holly has absolutely loved her time on the show — it’s been a huge part of her life, and has really helped to expand her fanbase over the years.
“But she feels now is the right time to bow out and wants to free up a bit more of her busy schedule to spend with her family.
“She’s still the best of pals with Leigh Francis and will continue to support the series.”
Yesterday comic Leigh posted a touching tribute to the star on his alias Keith Lemon’s Instagram page.
He wrote: “Love this woman. What an incredible sport. Always willing to get her hands dirty and join in.
“One of the boys but all woman. A wicked sense of humour and very easy to look at.
“Don’t look into her eyes though, ’cos she can make you do anything. What a lady! King of the ladies!
“The queen of the milk beasts! The one and only @hollywilloughby face of an angel but can have the potty mouth of . . . well me I guess.
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"Super rad! Super nice! My mate!
“I salute all your wonderfulness. Massive hugs.”
Holly replied: “Aww . . . what a lovely thing to say . . . love you Lemon.”
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