Holly Willoughby and Matt Richardson: A Decade-Old Joke Sparks Ongoing Feud
A seemingly harmless joke made in 2014 has reportedly fueled a long-standing tension between television presenter Holly Willoughby and comedian Matt Richardson. Richardson recently revealed the incident, involving a comment about Willoughby’s friend Nicole Appleton, led to a chilly reception that persisted even years later on the set of “Dancing On Ice” in 2021.
The Origin of the Dispute
The incident occurred during a run-through for a panel show titled “Reality Bites,” where Richardson was being considered as a team captain. Singer Nicole Appleton was also participating in the rehearsal. According to Richardson, host Stephen Mulhern asked Appleton about a previous television appearance involving multiple personalities. Richardson responded with a joke, stating that “the three of those in that room add up to one celebrity.” The joke was met with laughter at the time, and Richardson and Appleton reportedly developed a friendly relationship afterward, with Richardson attending gatherings at her home.
Holly’s Confrontation
Several years later, around 2017 or 2018, Willoughby confronted Richardson about the joke at a social event. She reportedly expressed her displeasure, stating the joke was “f***ing unacceptable” and questioning why he would build such a remark. Richardson noted that Appleton had already indicated she wasn’t offended by the joke, but Willoughby remained upset.
A Chilly Dynamic on “Dancing On Ice”
The tension between Willoughby and Richardson continued when they both appeared on “Dancing On Ice” in 2021. Richardson stated they “barely spoke” due to COVID-19 protocols and training schedules, but he believes Willoughby still held a grudge.
Fan Reaction
The revelation of the feud sparked discussion online, with some fans defending Willoughby’s loyalty to her friend, Nicole Appleton, a member of the pop group All Saints. Others questioned whether a decade-long grudge over a joke was justified.
Representatives for Holly Willoughby have been contacted for comment.