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Kim Woodburn Sharply Criticizes Holly Willoughby Following ‘Dancing on Ice’ Cancellation
Veteran television personality Kim Woodburn has delivered a harsh critique of former ITV presenter Holly Willoughby, escalating her long-standing disapproval of the erstwhile This Morning host. In an exclusive conversation, Woodburn voiced her opinions to Express Online, particularly in light of the news that Dancing on Ice will not be renewed after 19 seasons. Willoughby previously co-presented both This Morning and the ice-skating competition alongside Phillip Schofield before their publicized departures in 2023. Following their controversial exits, Woodburn openly questioned their contributions to the shows.
Woodburn Recalls ‘This Morning’ Clash
Woodburn referenced a past contentious encounter with Willoughby and Schofield during her appearance on This Morning. She stated that Schofield had challenged her account of her experiences on Celebrity Big Brother. Woodburn maintained that she was subjected to bullying by several housemates during her participation in the reality show, adding that she remained in the program primarily to secure her payment. The disagreement culminated in Willoughby abruptly ending the exchange.
Claims Willoughby’s Success Tied to Schofield
In a recent interview with Express Online and Casino.org, the outspoken media figure asserted that Willoughby’s prominence on ITV was primarily attributable to Schofield. Woodburn stated, “I’m going to be frank, and I stand by this. When a presenter is chosen for a position, one hopes they are suitable for the role. However, in my view, Holly Willoughby is ineffective.”
She continued, “For 14 years, Holly co-hosted This Morning with Phil. Can you recall a single instance where she disagreed with Phil on air? Not once! Her career was built on Phil’s presence. That is how she gained recognition and financial success. Subsequently, she joined Dancing On Ice, and again, she contributed very little. Frequently seen standing with her hands clasped, merely echoing, ‘Oh yes.’ She offers nothing substantive! While I had disagreements with Phil, it’s undeniable that he was highly engaging. She secured a position alongside Phil and then seemingly turned against him, and her career.”
Express Online has sought comment from Holly Willoughby’s representative.
‘Dancing on Ice’ Cancellation Follows Ratings Decline
Woodburn’s remarks follow the confirmation that Dancing on Ice, a long-running ITV fixture since 2006, will not be commissioned for a 20th season due to a decline in viewership. Willoughby initially joined the show as a co-host with Phillip Schofield until his departure in 2023, after which Stephen Mulhern took over as co-presenter for the most recent series. Willoughby also presented This Morning until her exit in 2023 and last appeared on Celebrity Juice in 2020.
Willoughby’s Farewell Post Omits Schofield
Following the cancellation announcement, Willoughby posted a tribute to Dancing on Ice, seemingly thanking everyone involved except her former co-star, Phillip Schofield. In an Instagram post, she wrote, “A huge thank you to @itv, The brilliant team, Crew, Celebrities and Everyone who has been part of our Dancing on Ice family over the last 19 years…” She further added, “It has been an absolute privilege to work alongside true national treasures Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean, and to have a front-row seat to their breathtaking skating… Finally and most importantly, thank you to you for watching, you’re the BEST!” [sic]