Holly Willoughby launched her new YouTube show, "Together," on Monday, featuring actor Stanley Tucci as her first guest. The cooking segment, which involved preparing a pasta dish, was described as a "deliberately laid back affair."
Willoughby, 45, adopted a more informal approach, beginning the show with expletives and suggesting an early drink. The interaction with Tucci included an innuendo-laden moment when he presented her with a colored courgette, which she remarked she had never seen before. This style was noted by some as a departure from her previous television persona.
Fan reception to the initial episode was largely positive, with viewers expressing enthusiasm for Willoughby's return to hosting and her relaxed presentation style. Comments included praise for her "fantastic first episode" and anticipation for future installments, with some viewers suggesting a website to share recipes.
However, critical reviews offered a more tepid assessment. The Mirror noted that the 50-minute running time for cooking a simple dish might have been better suited for a shorter, tighter episode. The publication suggested that having multiple guests or a more edited format could enhance the conversation and pacing, but acknowledged the show's intended relaxed nature.
The i's Sarah Carson characterized the series as a "confused attempt to present herself as relatable." The Telegraph's Anita Singh described the show as a "50-minute borefest of awkward small talk, forced swearing and pie tin trivia," adding that "Tucci was, as usual, effortlessly charismatic and at ease in front of the camera." Conversely, The Times' Carol Midgley suggested the show has potential, noting that its aesthetics are pleasing and Willoughby's profile could attract quality guests. Midgley also commented that Tucci's recipe looked appealing.
Willoughby herself acknowledged that she may not appeal to everyone, 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."
Katie Hind of the Daily Mail observed that the YouTube channel allows for Willoughby's "naughty, fun-loving side" to be showcased more freely, a contrast to her public image before her departure from "This Morning." Hind noted, "Yes, Holly is back, but the shackles are off and she's laughing again."
Future episodes of "Together" are set to feature guests such as Nicole Appleton, Emma Bunton, Katherine Ryan, and Joanne McNally. The show's debut has highlighted a divide between fan appreciation for Willoughby's new direction and critical concerns about its execution and format.