Holly Willoughby Reveals Simon Cowell's 'Terrifying' Reaction To Her 'Xtra Factor' Resignation, Following 'This Morning' Appointment

Holly Recalls 'Terrifying' Moment Simon Cowell Warned Her She'd Made A 'Big Mistake'

When it comes to scary bosses, Simon Cowell has to be up there, so spare a thought for Holly Willoughby, who was left terrified when she handed in her notice to him.

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The presenter had recalled the moment she had to tell the ‘X Factor’ judge that she was leaving spin-off show ‘The Xtra Factor’ in 2010.

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Holly Willoughby

Holly left the show following its sixth series to focus on her role as the then-new host of ‘This Morning’ - something which Simon told her was a “big mistake”.

Asked by her ‘Celebrity Juice’ co-stars about the exchange, Holly turned to Louis Walsh, and said: “You were there when I told Simon I was doing ‘This Morning’.”

“I was,” the former ‘X Factor’ judge replied. “He said, ‘big mistake, darling’.”

“I remember. I was terrified!” Holly admitted.

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Holly with the 'X Factor' team

Holly hosted ‘Xtra Factor’ for two series from 2008-2009, and was succeeded by Konnie Huq, who lasted just one series before being axed.

Caroline Flack and Olly Murs then landed the gig, and they've now been promoted to hosts of the main show.

Also on Thursday’s ‘Celebrity Juice’, Louis Walsh launches a fresh attack at ‘The X Factor’, having been axed in favour of newbie Nick Grimshaw earlier this year.

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Louis Walsh was also a guest on 'Celebrity Juice'

“I have been watching. I think Dermot’s missed big time. I really do. I think the older people like me and Dermot,” he said.

On why he thought he was dropped, Louis also said: “Because they [Grimmy and Rita Ora] were available and he wanted to give some new faces. Simon’s got a new face himself. He wanted younger faces so he hired them."

Of a possible return, he added: “I could be free… who is he going to get rid of. Everyone is contracted. Grimmy?”

‘Celebrity Juice’ airs tonight (17 September) at 10pm on ITV2.