In a dramatic and unexpected turn, This Morning and Dancing on Ice star Holly Willoughby is stepping away from ITV, leaving many of her fans and industry insiders in shock. After more than two decades as the face of the broadcaster’s prime-time programming, Willoughby finds herself without a show on ITV for the first time since she started in the industry. But what is behind this sudden change, and what does the future hold for the celebrated presenter?

A Major Career Shift

Holly Willoughby, 44, has long been a household name in the UK, hosting a wide range of shows, including This Morning alongside Phillip Schofield and Dancing on Ice. However, her recent decision to turn down ITV’s offer to front the revival of the popular game show You Bet! marks a major shift in her career.

“She’s been ITV’s Golden Girl for years, but now it’s clear that she’s looking beyond the confines of the network,” said an industry insider. Willoughby’s refusal to take on the role of host for You Bet! came as a surprise to many. A source close to the star shared with The Mail: “Holly has other commitments and couldn’t make it work. She’s in demand and now she isn’t shackled to This Morning four days a week, she is able to look at more options, some are global.”

The End of Dancing on Ice

Adding fuel to the fire, Dancing on Ice, which Willoughby co-hosted alongside Stephen Mulhern, has officially been axed, with no plans for a new series in 2026. The show, which began in 2006, had been a long-standing hit for ITV, but it struggled with its lowest-ever viewing figures in the 2025 finale. The decision to take a break from the series further solidified the shifting sands at ITV.

An ITV spokesperson confirmed, “Following another successful series earlier this year, Dancing on Ice will be rested in 2026 with no current plans for another series.” This move further cements the idea that Willoughby’s time with the broadcaster might be coming to an end, at least for now.

A New Opportunity with Netflix?

While Willoughby’s departure from ITV has stirred up speculation, it seems that she is looking to expand her horizons—possibly with streaming giant Netflix. After making her debut on the Celebrity Bear Hunt reality series, which aired on Netflix, sources close to Willoughby claim that she has impressed the streaming service’s bosses, who are eager to work with her more in the future.

“Celebrity Bear Hunt was a huge thing for her,” an insider revealed. “Her first role with Netflix and she just loved it. They loved her too, so there could very well be much more where that came from.”

With Netflix continuing to invest in reality television and talent, it wouldn’t be surprising if they make a bigger offer to the popular host in the coming months. A career with Netflix would offer Willoughby a more global platform, allowing her to reach audiences beyond the UK and take on projects with creative freedom—an opportunity that seems too enticing to pass up.

A Brand of Her Own: Wylde Moon

Willoughby’s future isn’t just tied to TV hosting. She has also built a significant business empire through her wellness and lifestyle brand, Wylde Moon. This business venture, estimated to be worth £10 million, has become a major part of her public identity. Wylde Moon, alongside her partnerships with major brands like Marks & Spencer, Diet Coke, and Oral B, positions her as an influencer with multiple revenue streams.

As Willoughby’s career evolves, the balance between her television and business ventures seems to be shifting, providing her with the freedom to explore new creative opportunities. The entrepreneur side of her career is equally significant, and it could allow her to navigate beyond the constraints of traditional TV roles.

Public Reaction: The Mixed Response

The news of Willoughby’s career shift has sparked mixed reactions. While many are excited for her to branch out and explore new opportunities, some fans are saddened by her departure from ITV, where she has long been a staple. The excitement surrounding her potential move to Netflix and the shift away from mainstream British television has left some wondering if the entertainment industry in the UK is facing a fundamental change.

“It’s not just a career move for Holly,” said one industry expert. “It’s about finding a new direction, away from the shadow of This Morning and Dancing on Ice. She’s embracing the future of media, and the whole industry should be paying attention.”

The Future of Ainsley and Sean: A New Era for the Couple

As Willoughby focuses on her personal and professional growth, the couple’s dynamic with their own businesses and family life will likely become more prominent. Sean Hannity and Ainsley Earhardt have recently made headlines due to their own personal and career milestones, so it’s clear that the media world is constantly evolving, with both Willoughby and Earhardt set to push boundaries in their respective careers.

Looking Ahead: The Next Steps for Holly Willoughby

Holly Willoughby’s future is undoubtedly full of promise. Whether she embraces a new direction with Netflix, continues to build her lifestyle brand, or ventures into even more projects, her path forward is clearly multifaceted. The decision to leave ITV’s high-profile shows behind, particularly as her personal and professional life shifts, is just the beginning.

Fans and industry insiders alike are eager to see what’s next for the dynamic and beloved presenter. In the fast-moving world of entertainment, Holly Willoughby’s story continues to unfold, and her next moves are sure to captivate the media landscape for years to come.