Holly Willoughby has launched her new YouTube show, "Together," with the first episode featuring actor Stanley Tucci. The show, which aims for a deliberately laid-back atmosphere, saw Willoughby and Tucci preparing a pasta dish.
Willoughby's return to presenting in this new format has been met with positive reactions from fans who have praised her relaxed and more uninhibited style. Early in the episode, the presenter made an expletive-laden remark and suggested starting the show with a drink, setting a candid tone.
During the cooking segment, Tucci presented Willoughby with a colored courgette, prompting a comment from the presenter that viewers noted as a subtle innuendo, reminiscent of her past on-air remarks.
Fan reactions shared online expressed enthusiasm for Willoughby's comeback and her hosting abilities. Comments included appreciation for her chemistry with Tucci and anticipation for future episodes. Some viewers suggested practical ideas, such as providing recipes on a website.
The Daily Mail noted that the YouTube channel offers Willoughby a platform for her "naughty, fun-loving side" that was less frequently seen on traditional television. The publication quoted Willoughby stating, "I know I'm not everyone's cup of tea. I know that and that's fine. I don't want to try to convince people if they don't want to watch... I don't fear what people think. I've had real fear, I know what that's like. Your perspective changes after something like that."
However, reviews from some media outlets have been more critical. Complaints have focused on the show's production quality, including shaky camera work, and its duration. The Mirror described the 50-minute runtime for cooking a single dish as potentially too long, suggesting a tighter 30-40 minute episode might be more effective. The publication also proposed that featuring multiple guests in future episodes could enhance the conversation and energy.
Sarah Carson of The i offered a more critical assessment, calling "Together" a "confused attempt to present herself as relatable." Carson suggested that viewers seek either "honest, unfiltered imperfection or glamour," and that Willoughby has not yet decided which persona to adopt, concluding that her strength lay in professionalism rather than a distinct personality.
Willoughby's departure from her previous role on "This Morning" preceded the launch of this new venture, which appears to be an effort to shape her public image on her own terms.