ITV has pulled the plug on Holly Willoughby’s sports panel show Play To The Whistle, according to reports
The show, which launched in 2015, is said to be bowing out after three series, despite Willoughby and captains Bradley Walsh and Frank Lampard being “big draws”.
A source told The Sun: “ITV loved the format and panel shows are historically popular.
“Having Holly as host is a big draw as are Bradley and Frank as captains.
“But it hasn’t performed as they’d hoped so they are resting it for now.”
Willouughby's husband Dan Baldwin was the executive producer on the show which saw two teams compete in sports knowledge and physical challenges. Comedian Romesh Ranganathan was also a regular as well as Seann Walsh and Jimmy Bullard.
The decision is said to be based on Willoughby, Walsh and Lampard’s busy schedules, making filming tricky.
Holly Willoughby - In pictures
“Holly is going to be up to her eyes in it with Dancing On Ice and This Morning, and Frank and Bradley have a lot on their plate with their other commitments,” the source continued.
“The regulars and guests did a great job but it just didn’t work out.”
There are reportedly plans to air one-off specials for “big sporting occasions, such as the football World Cup next year, but it won’t run for another full series.”
Standard Online has contacted ITV for comment.
The news comes a day after Willoughby confirmed she will be reprising hosting duties alongside Phillip Schofield when Dancing on Ice returns to TV in 2018.
The TV duo will welcome a host of stars to show off their best moves on the ice with the help of Olympic skaters Jane Torvill and Christopher Dean.
