Holly Willoughby backs Prince Harry for going public with girlfriend Meghan Markle
HOLLY Willoughby has backed Prince Harry for going public with his romance with actress Meghan Markle.
The royal romance was confirmed this morning after weeks of speculation, and Holly threw her support behind the prince by calling the union "so exciting".
Holly waded into the issue on This Morning today as she discussed Harry's news with co-host Phillip Schofield.
It came just minutes after the royal family confirmed the romance.
The statement released by Kensington Palace confirmed Megan is Harry's girlfriend, and explained the young royal is worried for her safety.
Holly and Phil talked about the story as it was breaking, and the blonde beauty declared she hopes this marks a change in the way the royals handle their relationships.
Royal romances are rarely officially confirmed, and Holly insisted times may be "changing".
She also called the romance "lovely" and could barely contain her glee as she said: "This is SO exciting".
They discussed the issue again later in the show, with Phil declaring that Harry seems very "angry" over the issues facing his girlfriend.
He said: "That is the most powerful statement ever to come out of a royal palce," and Holly added: "Good for him."
However, Holly questioned whether Harry ever can truly have a personal life because there's no way to stop "trolls writing horrible things online".
The statement released by the palace this morning explained: “Since he was young, Prince Harry has been very aware of the warmth that has been extended to him by members of the public.
"He feels lucky to have so many people supporting him and knows what a fortunate and privileged life he leads.
"He is also aware that there is significant curiosity about his private life...
"Prince Harry is worried about Ms Markle’s safety and is deeply disappointed that he has not been able to protect her.
“It is not right that a few months into a relationship with him that Ms Markle should be subjected to such a storm. He knows commentators will say this is ‘the price she has to pay’ and that ‘this is all part of the game’.
“He strongly disagrees. This is not a game – it is her life and his.”
The pair are believe to have first met in May while Harry was in Toronto on a promotional trip.
Meghan films Suits in the city and their paths are believed to have crossed while the royal was busying spreading the word about the Invictus Games, the event he runs for disabled soldiers.