Holly Willoughby and Stephen Mulhern have been snapped together ahead of the upcoming series of ITV’s Dancing on Ice.
The new picture shows 42-year-old Holly stunning in crimson red gown with a plunging neckline. Holly is seen on the arm of her new DOI co-host Stephen Mulhern, donning a suave navy blue suit and a smile, before they host the first episode on Sunday January 14th.
It will see Holly return to the screen for the first time since her life was put at risk by an alleged murder plot last year. Before Stephen, Holly hosted the show with Phillip Schofield, until his ITV departure.
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Phillip made a dramatic exit from his on-screen work after reports emerged of his affair with a young runner whilst working at ITV. Phillip is yet to re-enter the public eye, and the photos confirm he will not make his return with Dancing on Ice.
(Image: ITV)
After taking a few months to focus on her family and their safety, Holly decided to make her return. A source explained her decision to Mail Online: “Holly is a star and everyone was so very much hoping that she would decide to come back.
“After many discussions and a lot of thought, she thought that getting some normality into her life would be a good thing. There are obvious worries about going on live television, her main priority is her family, ITV have been hugely understanding and have not put any pressure on her at all.”
But Holly’s return will signal a new normal for the star, who agreed only to return if ITV promised extra security and protection. Reports suggest ITV’s priority is for Holly to feel “completely secure” in the studio, as well as ensuring her freedom with an alleged rolling contract that she can leave at any time.
(Image: Matt Frost/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
An insider told The Sun: “Bosses have been working hard to ensure she feels completely secure, trying not to put any pressure on all while making sure she knows they are ready to support her every step of the way.
“Everyone is absolutely delighted Holly has decided to return — she’s such an integral and popular part of Dancing On Ice. Holly feels happy and energised and new co-host Stephen is thrilled she’s on board.”
(Image: ITV)
Stephen and Holly’s chemistry and long-term friendship is likely what made the 46-year-old man the perfect replacement for Phillip. A source told the Sun: “Stephen has been the frontrunner to take Phillip’s spot for months but ITV is thrilled to now have him signed and sealed and ready to roll.
“Stephen is hugely loved by viewers, is a consummate professional and as an added bonus has worked with Holly for decades – they both started out in telly together.”
Dancing on Ice 2024 will air on Sunday 14th January at 6:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
