A member of the Royal Family has reportedly been ruled out of permanently replacing Holly Willoughby on This Morning.
In October of last year, the host revealed that she was departing the ITV show after 14 years, stating that it was a ‘tough farewell’.
She expressed her gratitude to fans months after her former co-host Phillip Schofield resigned away from his post, saying: “Most of all, thank you to the wonderful viewers.” You’ve been so loyal, supportive, and the finest company every day.
Following Holly’s departure, various well-known faces have temporarily replaced her, including Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, Alison Hammond, and Dermot O’Leary in the studio.
In addition to co-hosting, the queen served as a guest editor on the show, surprising listeners with her honest love advise, such as encouraging a caller to ‘get those sexy knickers out’.
While Sarah’s appearance did raise eyebrows, it has been reported that ITV would not consider her for a regular presenting job.
A source reportedly said that while she was a ‘joy to have around the place’, she has ‘zero chance’ of being invited back permanently.
‘At best, Fergie’s appearance divided opinion, at worst it was a complete and utter disaster,’ they told The Mirror.
‘She’s very sweet, even handing out gifts to all the staff she worked with on the day, but unfortunately she’s not a natural.
‘Her dream of landing a presenting role will have to find a home elsewhere as it won’t be with us.’
The Duchess is currently discussing potential partnerships with the network, according to a close source.
‘The Duchess’s writing career and charity work wouldn’t allow her to be a full-time TV host and this was never envisaged by either side,’ they said.
‘But she’s talking to ITV about a return to both This Morning and Loose Women soon, and has been told she’s welcome any time.’
A source for ITV also sad: ‘Sarah, Duchess of York’s appearance on This Morning in November was always a one-off as a guest editor and guest host but we are in conversation about her being back on This Morning and Loose Women, as her team have said.’
Following her appearance on This Morning, Sarah wrote a post on X thanking everyone she worked with and those who watched the episode.
‘I was excited to join @ThisMorning with @radioleary and @AlisonHammond today,’ she tweeted.
‘As co-host and guest editor, I’ve been lucky enough to be able to pick some topics I’m passionate about. Thank you to my wonderful co-hosts and to everyone who tuned in!’
Alison responded with a show of support, writing: ‘You were great !!’
This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV.
Source My Celebrity Life.