Holly Willoughby has left This Morning for a two-month holiday after a short goodbye message at the end of the show last week. The presenter, who used to appear alongside Phillip Schofield on the daytime TV show, usually takes an extended break over the summer each year.
Since Phillip was axed after admitting to an affair with a younger male colleague, Holly has taken to the sofa with a number of different presenters like Dermot O'Leary and Josie Gibson. The Mirror reports in Holly's final show last week, she signed off with a simple "See you, bye" - failing to mention she wouldn't be returning until September.
A TV insider told The Sun: "Holly will return after a usual and planned break over the summer."
It comes after Holly paid tribute to her beloved mother-in-law Sandra, with whom she shared a very close bond, as she told fans the matriarch had sadly died. She was inundated with support from fans and her close celebrity friends after sharing the news.
Holly wrote on Instagram: "Sleep well Sandra… Nonna, Mother, Sister, friend… To know her was to know strength itself… Raising four children after losing her husband, she then lost a son and more recently her sister… Thank you for your guidance, advice and bottomless Prosecco.
"Thank you for raising the incredible man I’m married to… I see your strength everyday in our children… Be at peace…Love you."
Holly's celeb pals were quick to flood the post with their support, including This Morning co-star Vanessa Feltz, who wrote: "I am so terribly sorry to hear of Sandra’s passing. I had such a memorable conversation with her. She exuded wisdom kindness and warmth. Sending love to you Dan and the whole family."
Fellow broadcaster Kate Thornton said: "Beautiful words for a truly beautiful and remarkable woman. I’m so sorry she’s no longer with you. Sending my heartfelt condolences x."
While close friend, All Saints star Nicole Appleton commented: "Ahh darling sending you all soo much love. Sandra was just wonderful!" followed by a broken heart emoji.
Fans also sent well wishes after hearing Holly's heartbreaking news with one posting: "I'm so sorry to hear this. Thinking of you all. Sending hugs xxx."
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