Births on February 10

Holly Willoughby, English model and television host

Holly Marie Willoughby, born on 10 February 1981, is a highly esteemed English television presenter, successful model, and accomplished author. Recognised for her warm and approachable on-screen persona, Willoughby has become one of the most prominent and beloved figures in British broadcasting. Her career, spanning over two decades, has seen her front numerous flagship programmes, establishing her as a household name across the United Kingdom and a significant voice in popular culture.

A Mainstay on ITV's Flagship Programmes

Willoughby is most famously known for her enduring presence as a co-presenter on two of ITV's most popular and long-running programmes, both alongside her long-time co-host, Phillip Schofield, forming one of television's most recognisable duos.

• This Morning (2009–Present): Since joining in September 2009, Holly Willoughby has been an integral part of the award-winning live daytime television show, This Morning. This programme, a cornerstone of ITV's schedule since 1988, offers a daily mix of news, current affairs, lifestyle segments, celebrity interviews, and human-interest stories. Her undeniable chemistry with Phillip Schofield, characterised by genuine rapport and shared humour, has been widely praised, contributing significantly to the show's sustained high ratings and its status as a definitive morning show. Her role involves interviewing guests, leading discussions on diverse topics, and engaging with viewers on everything from serious social issues and consumer advice to light-hearted entertainment.
• Dancing on Ice (2006–2011, 2018–Present): Willoughby has also been a central figure in the popular celebrity ice-skating competition, Dancing on Ice. She initially co-hosted the series from its inception in 2006 until 2011. Following a four-year hiatus for the show, she made a much-anticipated return to co-present the revived series in 2018, once again partnering with Phillip Schofield. The programme sees celebrities paired with professional ice dancers, performing elaborate routines live on ice for a panel of judges and public votes. Her involvement has helped solidify the show's position as a major Saturday night entertainment staple, consistently drawing millions of viewers each series with its blend of glamour, athleticism, and drama.

Venturing Beyond Core Commitments: Comedy, Reality & Entertainment

Beyond her long-standing roles, Holly Willoughby has showcased her remarkable versatility across a wide array of television genres, cementing her status as one of Britain's most sought-after and adaptable presenters.

• Celebrity Juice (2008–2020): For over a decade, Willoughby was a popular team captain on the irreverent, award-winning ITV2 comedy panel show, Celebrity Juice, alongside comedian Keith Lemon and fellow team captain Fearne Cotton. Known for its outrageous humour, celebrity guests, and often risque games, the show allowed Willoughby to display a more playful, spontaneous, and uninhibited side of her personality. She departed the series in 2020, citing a desire to spend more time with her family, marking the end of a significant and much-loved chapter in her career.
• Surprise Surprise (2012–2015): Willoughby took on the significant role of presenting the revived version of the classic ITV entertainment series, Surprise Surprise. This heartwarming show was renowned for making wishes come true for deserving individuals, fulfilling lifelong dreams, and reuniting long-lost loved ones, a format originally made famous by the legendary Cilla Black. Willoughby successfully brought her compassionate and engaging style to the role, continuing the show's legacy of emotional and uplifting moments.
• The Xtra Factor (2008–2009): She served as a co-presenter for The Xtra Factor, the popular spin-off show for ITV's hugely successful singing competition, The X Factor. This companion series provided crucial behind-the-scenes access, contestant interviews, and expert analysis, complementing the main show's broadcasts.
• Text Santa (2011–2013, 2015): As part of ITV's annual charity appeal, Willoughby was a regular presenter for Text Santa, a major fundraising initiative that helped to raise millions for various UK charities through live appeals, celebrity challenges, and special programming.
• The Voice UK (2012–2013): Willoughby also lent her distinctive presenting talents to the BBC's flagship singing competition, The Voice UK, for two successful series. Her role involved guiding contestants through the initial 'blind audition' stages and the high-pressure live shows, adding to her experience in major talent formats.
• Play to the Whistle (2015–2017): This ITV sports-themed comedy panel show saw Willoughby as a regular panellist, further demonstrating her ability to adapt to different television formats and contribute to comedic discussions alongside sports personalities and comedians.
• I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! (2018): In a high-profile and critically acclaimed temporary role, Holly Willoughby co-hosted the eighteenth series of the immensely popular reality show I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! from the Australian jungle. She stepped in to co-present alongside Declan Donnelly, filling in for Ant McPartlin during his break from television. Her performance was widely praised by viewers and critics alike, contributing to one of the show's most watched and beloved series to date, showcasing her ability to thrive in a demanding live environment.

Beyond the Screen: Author and Influencer

While primarily known for her captivating television work, Holly Willoughby has also expanded her professional reach into other creative and commercial ventures. She has embraced her role as an author, most notably with her bestselling book Reflections, published in 2021, a candid exploration of her personal and professional journey, offering insights into her life, values, and well-being. Additionally, she has co-authored a popular series of children's books, L'Etoile, with her sister Kelly, with the first book released in 2013, showcasing her versatility and appeal to a broader audience. Her influence extends to successful brand endorsements and a significant social media presence, solidifying her status as a prominent public figure and a successful entrepreneur in the entertainment industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When was Holly Willoughby born?

Holly Marie Willoughby was born on 10 February 1981.

What are Holly Willoughby's main current presenting roles?

Her most prominent current presenting roles are as co-host of ITV's flagship daytime show This Morning and the celebrity ice-skating competition Dancing on Ice, both alongside Phillip Schofield.

Has Holly Willoughby presented shows other than This Morning and Dancing on Ice?

Yes, she has an extensive presenting career which includes being a popular team captain on Celebrity Juice, presenting the revived Surprise Surprise, The Xtra Factor, Text Santa, BBC's The Voice UK, Play to the Whistle, and a highly praised temporary co-host role on I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!.

Is Holly Willoughby also an author?

Yes, she is an accomplished author, known for her bestselling book Reflections (published in 2021) and her children's book series L'Etoile (co-authored with her sister Kelly, starting in 2013).

Who is Holly Willoughby's long-time co-presenter on ITV?

Holly Willoughby has famously co-presented many shows, most notably This Morning and Dancing on Ice, with Phillip Schofield for many years, forming one of British television's most enduring partnerships.