Celebrities

Holly Willoughby quits 'This Morning' after man arrested for plotting to kidnap her

"This is such a difficult goodbye."

British TV star Holly Willougby has announced she won't be returning to her role as co-host of 'This Morning', ending her 14-year run on the breakfast show.

In a statement shared to her Instagram, she thanked "everyone who has ever worked on the show over the years".

Willoughby hadn't been on air for almost a week after news broke that a man had been charged with allegedly plotting to kidnap and murder her.

According to The Sun, police launched a fast-paced investigation after uncovering "sinister messages" threatening to "seriously harm" the presenter. Authorities reportedly began a 24-hr guard of Willougby's home where she lives with her husband and children.

In her statement, the mother-of-three said the goodbye was "such a difficult one".

"I forever will be proud of what we've done together. Thank you to everyone at ITV for being supportive. To every guest who has sat on our sofa, thank you," she added.

"Most of all, thank you to the wonderful viewers. You've been so loyal, so supportive and the very best company every day.

"Richard and Judy said 'we only look after this show, it will always belong to the viewers.

It's been an honour to just be part of it's story and I know this story has many chapters left to go. Sadly, however, I now feel I have to make this decision for me and my family. I will miss you all so much. Holly."

The 42-year old started presenting the show in 2009 alongside Philip Schofield, who resigned earlier this year after admitting to an affair with a younger 'This Morning' colleague.