Holly Willoughby is reportedly on 'indefinite leave' from This Morning following an alleged plot to 'kidnap and murder' her.
Gavin Plumb appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates Court on Friday, 6 October, charged with soliciting to commit murder and incitement to commit kidnap. Essex Police confirmed they arrested the suspect on Wednesday evening, and he was charged on Friday morning.
Plumb spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, address, and where he worked. He was denied bail and will appear before Chelmsford Crown Court on November 3.
Holly, who was said to be 'distraught' when she learned of the allegations, has been given a 24-hour police guard to protect her.
ITV is also understood to be providing round-the-clock security and support for the presenter.
The Mirror reports how ITV has given her permission to remain off work for as long as she needs. A source said: "Holly has been left distraught by the news.
"This has been an absolutely horrible week for her. At the moment, she really is getting through things hour by hour. Her absolute priority is her own safety and that of her family – who are supporting her through this incredibly difficult time."
The TV insider added that 'no decisions' have been made about when she will return to work, but that right now, a This Morning return 'could not be further from her mind."
OK! has approached representatives for Holly and This Morning for comment.
It comes as the star was missing from the show on Thursday after show bosses were alerted to the alleged 'kidnap plot.' The Sun reports how Holly was pulled off the show moments before she was due to go on air, after police alerted producers.
Holly was quickly replaced by Alison Hammond – who fronted Thursday's daytime show alongside Josie Gibson.
The story was also addressed on GMB by Holly's colleagues, with Ben Shephard saying: "This is a really worrying sinister story for a good friend of ours, a colleague, of course we know Holly very well she only works in the studio next to us."
In a statement, Superintendent Tim Tubbs said: 'This was an extremely fast-paced investigation, with many of our officers and national partners working overnight to secure these charges.
The safeguarding of any victim is paramount, and we will continue to prioritize this as the investigation proceeds.' On Friday, a spokesperson for ITV said: "This news has come as a huge shock to everyone at This Morning and ITV. We are providing all the support we can to Holly and her family at this incredibly distressing time.'"
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