She's putting herself up for the nation's verdict

As Holly Willoughby returns to host Dancing On Ice, a source tells new that public opinion could be divided about her comeback

Holly Willoughby is preparing for a "new year and a new start" after saying good riddance to a drama-filled 2023.

Within the space of six months last year, the presenter saw her long-standing friendship with Phillip Schofield left in tatters, became the target of a terrifying alleged plot to kidnap her, and quit This Morning after 14 years.

Following the unexpected news that the 42-year-old signed a new contract over Christmas to return to ITV as co-host of Dancing On Ice alongside Stephen Mulhern, 46, a source exclusively told new that Holly is looking forward to "a new beginning".

"Understandably, she needed time to process what happened and regroup," they said. "She's had time off to re-lay her foundations, spend time with her family, and focus on her own wellbeing, and this is a new beginning." As another of Holly's shows was axed last week - the BBC's Freeze The Fear With Wim Hof-PR expert Dermot McNamara predicts her imminent return to prime time will be critical for her career.

"It's her make-or-break moment, because she's walked away from a massive juggernaut like This Morning," he said. Dermot, founder of Candid Publicity, claimed that with television ratings in decline, bosses have high hopes for her comeback but public opinion could be divided.