Holly Willoughby's surprise departure from the ITV daytime chat show This Morning has sparked much discussion on who could replace her.

Willoughby confirmed the news on her social media sharing that after "14 years, I will not be returning to This Morning."

In her statement, Willoughby thanked viewers and staff on the show, saying: "To everyone who has ever worked on the show over the years, thank you so so much.

"This is such a difficult goodbye, you are incredible and I forever will be proud of what we've done together."

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

Who is favourite to replace Holly Willoughby on This Morning?

Odds from BonusCodeBets have shown that other presenters already a part of This Morning are among the favourites to take over Willoughby's role.

The odds are as follows:

  • Alison Hammond - Evens
  • Josie Gibson - 2/1
  • Rochelle Humes - 10/1
  • Lisa Snowden - 16/1
  • Amanda Holden 25/1
  • Davina McCall 33/1
  • Mel Giedroyc 33/1
  • Ruth Langsford - 33/1
  • Sue Perkins - 50/1
  • Judy Finnigan - 50/1

A BonusCodeBets spokesperson said: “Holly Willoughby first began presenting This Morning in 2009 and will now permanently step away from hosting duties on the daytime show, leaving a seat on the blue sofa vacant for a new name.

"Alison Hammond is the current evens favourite according to the bookies, with Josie Gibson next in the betting at 2/1.

The Northern Echo: Alison Hammond is among the favourites to replace Holly WilloughbyAlison Hammond is among the favourites to replace Holly Willoughby (Image: PA)

“Outsiders for the role include 33/1 shots Davina McCall and Mel Giedroyc, while a return for Ruth Langsford is also 33/1 and Judy Finnigan is 50/1 to make a comeback.”

ITV releases statement as Holly Willoughby quits This Morning

In an ITV statement, Kevin Lygo, managing director of media and entertainment, said: “We are sad that Holly is leaving This Morning, but respect her decision which we know will have been extremely difficult for her to make.

“Holly is one of the best-loved, respected and most accomplished broadcasters in the UK.

“She has been at the heart of This Morning for the past 14 years, and she is adored by our viewers.

“Holly has brought her unique brand of warmth, energy, humour and fun to one of the country’s most popular daytime shows, and everyone on the programme will miss her enormously.

“She remains a much-loved member of the ITV family and we look forward to continuing to work with her in the future.”

2023 has already been a turbulent year for Holly who has had to deal with This Morning co-host Phillip Schofield stepping down from the show due to an alleged off-air rift between the pair and then ITV following the revelation that he'd had an affair with a younger male colleague.