In a move that’s set to redefine her legacy, former This Morning host Holly Willoughby has announced her ambition to shift gears and take on a daring new direction in her career. The beloved presenter, known for her warmth and sparkle on daytime television, is preparing to delve into the gritty, hard-hitting world of documentaries—starting with topics that hit close to home.

After more than a decade of co-hosting This Morning and becoming a household name across the UK, Holly shocked fans when she permanently stepped away from the show in October 2023. The decision followed the arrest and sentencing of a man who had plotted to kidnap and harm her—a deeply traumatic event that shook her family and caused her to reevaluate both her safety and her career.

Holly Willoughby

Now, insiders reveal, Holly is ready to reclaim her narrative. The 44-year-old mother of three is eyeing a radical career evolution, seeking to swap her heels and lip gloss for raw storytelling and investigative reporting.

“Holly wants to break out of her daytime presenter role and get into more serious journalism and reporting that hits home,” a close source told Closer. “She’s said she’s not afraid to take risks and explore unknown territories.”

Her recent appearance alongside Bear Grylls in the Netflix series Bear Hunt served as a turning point. Facing physical and mental challenges in the Costa Rican jungle, Holly reportedly came back with more than just a survival badge—she came back with a purpose.

Facing Trauma, Creating Change

Sources close to the star say Holly is contemplating a documentary series that addresses stalking, drawing from her own horrifying experience. She hopes to shine a light on how victims are affected, why individuals become stalkers, and how vulnerable people often slip through the cracks of the justice system.

“She feels it’s her calling to do something that could help others,” the insider explained. “She wants to tackle tough issues like mental health, domestic abuse, and child welfare.”

While the content may be a far cry from her previous work, Holly’s background in telling real-life stories on This Morning has prepared her for this challenge. Her passion for advocacy, combined with a determination to reclaim her power, makes her uniquely positioned to lead these conversations.

holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield

Leaving Comfort for Purpose

Willoughby’s gradual return to television has seen her take on hosting gigs like Dancing on Ice and a Christmas special with longtime friend Stephen Mulhern. But sources say she may now walk away from those familiar roles to focus on meaningful work.

“Holly feels like she doesn’t really need Dancing On Ice anymore,” one insider said. “She loves the team, but now is the time for her to start doing things out of her comfort zone.”

Her husband, TV producer Dan Baldwin, is said to have reservations about the shift—particularly given the emotional toll it could take. However, he reportedly supports Holly’s passion, recognizing this journey as a form of healing.

Bear Grylls and Holly Willoughby

 

“She wants to leave a legacy,” the insider added. “Not just as a presenter, but as someone who stood up, told her story, and fought for others.”

As 2025 unfolds, it seems Holly Willoughby isn’t just returning to TV—she’s rewriting what it means to be a presenter, using her platform to spark change, tell untold stories, and inspire a new era of purpose-driven programming.