Holly Willoughby's new YouTube series, 'Holly Willoughby Together (With Voy)', marks her latest attempt to revive her career after a tumultuous exit from 'This Morning'. The show, a cookery and lifestyle program, has drawn comparisons to Meghan Markle's 'With Love, Meghan', but critics note it is less cringe-worthy and more genuine.
A New Beginning on YouTube
Willoughby's departure from 'This Morning' was marred by the Phillip Schofield scandal and her widely mocked 'Are you OK? I hope so' monologue. Subsequent projects, including a reality show with Bear Grylls, failed to regain her footing. Now, she has turned to YouTube, a platform she reportedly sees as the future of television. The show, produced in partnership with health company Voy, aims to showcase her authentic self without network interference.
Comparisons to Meghan Markle
The show's tone and presentation are undeniably similar to Meghan Markle's Netflix series 'With Love, Meghan'. However, reviewers argue that Willoughby's version is more palatable because she lacks the 'sweatily desperate control freakery' that made Markle's show uncomfortable. Instead, it resembles a 'Saturday Kitchen' rip-off, focusing on cooking and casual conversation.
Guest Stanley Tucci and Format
The first episode features actor and chef Stanley Tucci, a safe and charming guest. The format, however, is unusual: Tucci reads his own interview questions from spoons, a task typically handled by the host. This underscores the show's true purpose: an 'aggressive audition' for Willoughby's return to fame. The weakest moments are when she tries too hard to appear candid, swearing and discussing wine with the crew. The best parts are when she relaxes, teasing Tucci with microwavable Rustlers burgers and displaying her natural wit.
Length and Potential
At 45 minutes, the show could benefit from trimming, especially a tedious segment where Willoughby slices courgettes with extreme caution. Despite these flaws, the series has potential. If Willoughby can sustain the charming, nervous energy she shows when being herself, audiences may warm to her. The show is available on YouTube now.
