Holly Willoughby's new YouTube show, "Together," launched on Tuesday, attracting 41,000 views within its first 24 hours. The show features Willoughby, 45, attempting a more relatable persona, including the use of expletives and innuendo, with actor Stanley Tucci as her first guest.
Critics were largely unimpressed, with several reviews drawing comparisons to Meghan Markle's earlier Netflix lifestyle series, "With Love, Meghan." The Guardian described Willoughby's show as "a marginally less agonising With Love, Meghan," while The Telegraph stated that "Holly Willoughby's dire YouTube show makes Meghan look good." The Telegraph's review specifically criticized the program for "awkward small talk, forced swearing and pie tin trivia," noting that even Tucci could not salvage the 50-minute episode.
The Mirror suggested that the 50-minute runtime for cooking a simple dish was too long, proposing that a tighter 30-40 minute format might have been more effective. The publication also commented that having only one guest could make the conversation less dynamic.
Sarah Carson from The i Paper characterized "Together" as a "confused attempt to present herself as relatable," questioning whether the public wants "unfiltered imperfection or glamour." Carol Midgley of The Times offered a more measured outlook, suggesting that the show's aesthetic appeal and Willoughby's established fanbase might contribute to its success, and that she would likely attract quality guests.
Despite the critical reception, some viewers expressed enthusiasm for Willoughby's return to hosting. Comments indicated appreciation for her "fantastic first episode" and excitement for future installments. Some fans suggested the creation of a website to accompany the show, where recipes could be posted.
Willoughby herself acknowledged the transition to digital, confessing to finding YouTube a "weird" new environment. She shared that her daughter playfully mocked her attempts to explain YouTube's subscription and notification features. Willoughby stated that she understands she is "not everyone's cup of tea" and is not concerned about convincing those who do not wish to watch.
Looking ahead, upcoming episodes are slated to feature guests such as Nicole Appleton, Emma Bunton, Katherine Ryan, and Joanne McNally. The show's first episode featured Willoughby and Tucci preparing a pasta dish, with the Telegraph review noting that their conversation sometimes devolved into reading ingredients from a Fray Bentos steak and kidney pie.
Willoughby's move to YouTube comes after a period of personal difficulty, including a stalking ordeal. She indicated that such experiences have altered her perspective on public opinion and fear.