ITV show This Morning has seen a whirlwind of changes recently, with long-time presenters Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby stepping aside and a fresh roster of talent taking their place. The line-up of guests is also in constant flux, featuring a mix of experts and star-studded appearances.
In a surprising turn of events, one of the programme’s familiar faces has disclosed that she’s been cut from the show, expressing her struggle to “move on” after her departure. Holly Jay Smith, affectionately dubbed the Coupon Queen by viewers, was a go-to source for thrifty advice on the show.
Taking to Instagram, Holly opened up about her exit from This Morning, sharing that the decision has left her grappling with feelings of despondency over the past several months. In an emotional and extensive message, she reflected on her experience in view of her 106,000 followers.
“Over the past few months, I’ve been feeling down about something that ‘was,’ instead of remembering how great it was,” she penned in her heartfelt Instagram update.
She then highlighted the challenges of moving on, particularly as someone with autism. She explained: “As an autistic person, it’s hard to move on from something when you never received closure.
“It also has a habit of making you replay one negative experience over and over in your head, causing you to forget the hours upon hours of amazing times, the people you met, and the friends you made.”
She continued: “ITV’s Morning rescued me from a dark place and allowed me to share my special interest with millions of people every single Friday for nearly two years.
“So… to the presenters who I spent every week with, thank you for taking the time to understand my disability, for helping me get through the weeks where I was struggling and just for being amazing people.”
Holly added: “To the floor managers, hosts, producers, assistant producers, the makeup team, the art department, the cameramen and women (and everyone else behind the scenes) you are the glue that holds the show together.
“I thank you for putting a smile on my face every week.
“So, to celebrate my time at the show, here are some unseen photos and videos! (Thank you to @ankerfrancine to giving me the opportunity in the first place) #itvthismorning #couponqueen #tvpresenter #autsimawareness #autismawarenesseveryday.” (sic)
Fans flocked to support her, with some asking if she was going to return. Holly commented: “I offered but they replied saying they had moved on (which is perfectly fine). Would have loved to have a last show tho.” (sic)
Many shared their sadness over her being axed, with one writing: “I’m so sorry. They are missing a trick as right now people need as much help with money saving right now and you were a breathe of fresh air with Dermot and Alison.” (sic)
This Morning airs weekdays at 10am on ITV and ITVX.
