Holly Willoughby has responded to criticism of her new YouTube show, 'Together,' stating that she welcomes negative feedback. The former 'This Morning' host launched the series last month, which has since garnered mixed reviews from critics.
Willoughby addressed the critiques in a recent Instagram video while preparing for lunch with friends. She referenced an episode where she made sausages from scratch, humorously noting, "Everybody loves a banger... Which it did. Thanks for all your feedback as well, because it's really great hearing what you think, and what you don't like, because that's equally as important as well. So, keep it coming."
Her YouTube venture has faced a critical reception, with some reviews drawing comparisons to Meghan Markle's lifestyle ventures. One particular one-star review in The Telegraph described Willoughby's show as a "50-minute borefest of awkward small talk, forced swearing and pie tin trivia," suggesting that "even Meghan's producers had the good sense to keep changing things up." The Mirror noted that a 50-minute runtime for cooking a simple dish might be better suited for a tighter 30-40 minute episode, suggesting that multiple guests could make future conversations more lively.
Meanwhile, The i Paper's Sarah Carson described 'Together' as a "confused attempt to present herself as relatable," positing that Willoughby "still hasn't decided which she wants to be" – relatable or aspirational. The Times' Carol Midgley expressed a more optimistic view, suggesting the show "looks nice," Willoughby might retain her existing fanbase, and her profile could attract quality guests.
Willoughby's return to the spotlight with 'Together' follows her departure from 'This Morning' in October 2023. Her exit came after revelations that she was the target of a kidnapping plot, and five months after her co-host Phillip Schofield admitted to an affair with a younger colleague.
The upcoming Friday episode of 'Together' is set to feature 90s icons Emma Bunton and Nicole Appleton discussing their experiences and fashion from that era. Willoughby encouraged viewers to watch the sausage-making episode, playfully referring to it as the "bangers" episode, and to look out for the new installment.