ITV bosses are still hoping to convince Holly Willoughby to return to 'Dancing On Ice'.
ITV hoping for Holly Willoughby return to DOI
Stephen Mulhern has replaced Holly's co-star Phillip Schofield as presenter of the show and although Holly, 42, is taking some time out after being the victim of a kidnap plot, producers hope she will return to host alongside him.
A TV insider told The Sun: "Stephen has been the frontrunner to take Phillip’s spot for months but ITV is thrilled to now have him signed and sealed and ready to roll.
“It means that, whatever happens, they have at least one host for the skate show.
“Stephen is hugely loved by viewers, is a consummate professional and as an added bonus has worked with Holly for decades - they both started out in telly together.
“Knowing Stephen will be there beside her could be the comfort blanket Holly needs to say yes.
"Holly’s situation remains up in the air and producers are now counting down to the start in days rather than weeks.
"They’re looking at every avenue to try and get it across the line, but do also have a ‘Plan B’ list of several figures who could fill her spot.”
Josie Gibson, Rochelle Humes and Christine Lampard have all been tipped for the job if Holly does not return.