Holly Willoughby angered by Channel 5 as bosses ‘plough on’ with ‘horrendous’ documentary on star’s stalker
Holly Willoughby has refused any part in Channel 5’s upcoming documentary detailing her harrowing stalking ordeal.
The 44-year-old ITV presenter was the target of a sickening plot from former security guard Gavin Plumb.
In July last year, Plumb was given a life sentence at Chelmsford Crown Court for planning to kidnap and murder Willoughby.
The horrifying saga led to her stepping back from the helm of ITV’s This Morning and taking leave from television appearances for a time.
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The new Channel 5 show, called Stalking Holly Willoughby, is said to be “ploughing ahead” regardless of the lack of involvement.
“They know it’ll be a ratings hit to detail the gory specifics of the case,” an insider told The Sun.
Willougby has now “declined to be interviewed” about the harrowing experience.
Her representatives have also claimed that as the 44-year-old was not technically stalked, the title was inaccurate.
Willougby’s team was apparently particularly concerned that the story will be “sensationally dramatised.”
“It’s an awkward move, as it’s not their story to tell,” the source continued.
They warned that Channel 5’s show risks dredging up back “horrendous memories for entertainment purposes.”
The source added: “She’s just trying to move on with her life.”
GB News has contacted Holly Willoughby’s representatives and Channel 5 for comment.
“Nothing can prepare you for something like that… I wouldn’t wish what happened to me on anybody at all,” Wiloughby said earlier this year, speaking up for the first time on the ordeal.
When asked if she considered remaining anonymous about the kidnap plot, she was adamant: “No, it wasn’t an option. For me, it’s just not an option.”
“You have to decide, I can take this on board and it can absolutely affect all aspects of my life, or I can make a choice to go, let’s focus on everything that’s positive and good,” the 44-year-old explained, becoming emotional.
The beloved presenter assured fans by emphasising her support network: “I’m healthy and I’m happy. I’ve got a wonderful husband and children and family, I’ve got great friends.”
She spoke of finding strength in relying on others: “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.”
Gavin Plumb, 37, was handed a minimum of 16 years behind bars last year.
The court heard he had been plotting to abduct Willoughby since 2021 after he “developed an obsession” with her.
Essex police said he had: “scoured social media and material online, amassing thousands of images of the star and gaining detailed knowledge of her activity and movements.”
He was thwarted after an American undercover police officer discovered his frightening posed as a potential accomplice and notified British authorities.
During sentencing, Judge Mr Justice Murray praised Willoughby’s “considerable courage” in her handling of the case.