She’s one of our most successful television presenters juggling jobs on big name shows including This Morning and Celebrity Juice.
But Holly Willoughby, 36, has admitted in a candid new interview that she wasn’t always held in such high regard in her professional life – and, shockingly, she thinks her bubbly blonde good looks were to blame.
Appearing on The Jonathan Ross Show, airing on Saturday night, the mum of three said: “I think when I started out, [I did face criticism].
“A lot of people look at the blonde hair and this and that and the other, and have a massive judgement on you.”
“But then I suddenly realised I couldn’t be anyone else and actually the bits where I mess up or I’m just me seem to be the things that work.
“When you accept that, then that just makes things easier.”
It’s not the first time that Holly’s spoken out about her appearance unfairly leading to judgement about her abilities.
“In my younger days it was always such an easy option, an easy target, it used to drive me potty.
“Being known as Holly Willoughbooby now is just a bit of silliness – it’s for a comedy show [Celebrity Juice].
“I don’t know that I’d give people an option to be sexist – it does not sit well with me.”
Holly added that she feels she’s judged “less” these days – and it’s not hard to see why.
And not content with winning over the small screen, the beloved TV star has also served as brand ambassador for global products including Diet Coke and Garnier Nutrisse.
Additionally, she’s released her own successful clothing and homeware ranges.
Oh, and she’s also co-written a string of children’s books with her sister Kelly, as well as two baby books and even a guide to friendship alongside BFF Fearne Cotton!
Meanwhile, Holly will return to the helm of the revamped Dancing On Ice next year alongside Phillip Schofield.
Holly presented the ice skating series with Phil from its beginning in 2006 until Christine Lampard took over in 2012.
She’s definitely got the last laugh over her critics!