Former This Morning presenter Holly Willoughby is said to have had an “emotional” reunion with an ITV co-star after her ordeal involving a kidnap plot.

The 43-year-old was identified as the target of a kidnapping and murder scheme last October, leading her to step away from This Morning.

In July, the court sentenced Gavin Plumb, the man allegedly behind the plot, to life in prison with a minimum term of 16 years.

Holly made a courageous return to television by co-hosting Dancing On Ice with Stephen Mulhern in January. The pair are also set to host a revival of the 90s game show You Bet! later this year.

Despite Gavin’s imprisonment, Holly has reportedly continued to face anxiety. However, Stephen is said to be a significant source of support as she prepares to return to work with him.

A source told Closer: “Having Stephen alongside her and knowing they’ll be doing it together has helped her enormously – it’s been quite an emotional reunion.

“And while she’s still battling with anxiety and working on rebuilding her confidence, she’s grateful that she’ll be working with such a close friend she not only feels incredibly supported by, but who she loves and adores.”

Holly and Stephen initially co-hosted the children’s show Ministry of Mayhem in 2004. Later, Stephen filled in for Phillip Schofield on an episode of Dancing On Ice in 2022 before officially taking over the role earlier this year.