Holly Willoughby has addressed 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 garnered mixed reviews from critics.
Willoughby, 45, recently released an episode where she attempted to make 'Toad in the hole' from scratch. She described the experience, which involved making sausages, as having "innuendo" and humorously commented that it felt "like I was on Only Fans."
Responding to the reviews on her Instagram, Willoughby thanked her followers for their input. "I'm just getting ready to head out to lunch with some friends," she said in a clip while doing her makeup. "You'll be pleased to know there's not a sausage in sight. In case you think I've gone completely mad, I am of course talking about my bangers that I made. Everybody loves a banger, of course; that was a bit of a departure from me, making sausages from scratch on Together. Yeah, whenever you have a sausage in the vicinity, comedy follows. Which it did."
She emphasized the importance of all feedback, adding, "Thanks for all your feedback as well, because it's really great hearing what you think, and what you like, and what you don't like, because that's equally as important as well. So, keep it coming."
The series premiere featured Willoughby and guest Stanley Tucci, 65, preparing a pasta dish. Critics noted attempts at relatability through swearing and innuendo. One review from The Telegraph compared the show unfavorably to Meghan Markle's lifestyle venture, calling Willoughby's series a "50-minute borefest of awkward small talk, forced swearing and pie tin trivia."
Other reviews highlighted issues such as shaky camera work and extended running times. The Mirror suggested that a shorter episode or multiple guests might improve the pacing and conversation. The i Paper's Sarah Carson described the show as a "confused attempt to present herself as relatable," suggesting Willoughby had not decided whether to aim for "honest, unfiltered imperfection or glamour."
Despite critical reception, Willoughby announced that the upcoming Friday episode will feature 90s icons Emma Bunton and Nicole Appleton discussing their experiences and fashion from the decade. Willoughby departed "This Morning" in October 2023, following a period of absence from the spotlight after an alleged plot to kidnap her and her former co-host Phillip Schofield's scandal.