Holly Willoughby has opened up about the profound impact a plot to murder her had on her life, describing the experience as something for which “nothing can prepare you.”
In July 2023, security guard Gavin Plumb, aged 37, was found guilty of attempting to kidnap, rape, and kill the British TV star. Prosecutors revealed that Plumb, who was obsessed with the This Morning host, had been planning the crime before his arrest. Willoughby, who waived her anonymity in connection with the case, left This Morning in October 2023 after 14 years with the show.
Plumb was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 16 years at Chelmsford Crown Court. During the trial, it was revealed that Plumb had been obsessively following Willoughby on social media, collecting images and tracking her movements. Plumb had previously been convicted of kidnapping and attempted kidnapping.
Speaking to The Sunday Times, Willoughby, 43, admitted the past year had been incredibly difficult. “It’s been a tough one. There’s no way of sugar-coating it,” she shared, reflecting on the emotional toll of the events. However, she added that she had chosen to focus on the positive aspects of her life, emphasizing the importance of her health, happiness, and supportive family and friends.
“I’ve got a wonderful husband and children and family, I’ve got great friends. You have to go: I choose to positively move forward and rely on all those people – the police, the court, the judge, the jury – all those people to do their role,” she said.
Willoughby also noted that, despite the shocking ordeal, she never felt she would break down. “It was not an option. So many people go through tough things, they just do,” she explained.
The presenter, who stepped away from This Morning, expressed that leaving the show was an easy decision. She also made it clear that returning to television was inevitable, acknowledging that financial considerations were a factor in her career.
In the aftermath of the plot, Willoughby praised the authorities for their swift action. She thanked the undercover US police officer who had alerted authorities to the danger, helping to prevent the crime. “I will forever be grateful to the undercover police officer who understood the imminent threat, and to the Metropolitan and Essex police forces for their swift response,” she said in a statement.
Willoughby’s gratitude extended to those who had supported her during the trial, including the police, prosecutors, and the jury. She also acknowledged the bravery of Plumb’s previous victims, whose courage in speaking out had made the conviction possible.
In a separate controversy, Willoughby’s This Morning co-host, Phillip Schofield, also departed from the show six months prior after admitting to an inappropriate but not illegal affair with a younger colleague.
Despite the challenging year, Willoughby’s resilience and determination to move forward have been evident as she continues to focus on her personal and professional life.
