Holly Willoughby teased her comeback to television in a magnificent ruby red gown, as she prepared to forget the traumas of recent months.

The former This Morning host looked stunning in a floor-length Vivienne Westwood gown as she posed alongside Stephen Mulhern to launch the new season of Dancing On Ice.

Her first public appearance since her shocking departure from the ITV morning program three months ago, when a ‘kidnap and murder’ plan against her was stopped.

According to various sources, the encounter left her shaken and concerned for her family’s safety, so she left the program.

The show’s shooting apparently took place two weeks ago with her longtime friend.

The session, which took place privately in a London studio, was described as a “emotional day” by a friend.

“It felt like the beginnings of a routine after months of being at home and shutting herself off from the outside world,” the friend explained, adding that having a close buddy really aided her mental health.

“For years and years, Phil [Schofield] was with her and suddenly he was gone. To be working with Stephen again at such a poignant time in her career is special for Holly,” the buddy stated.

“Whether she went back to Dancing On Ice was a quandary for Holly, some gentle persuasion from Stephen definitely helped to seal the deal.”

Next week, on Sunday, January 14, Holly will co-host the ice skating show with Stephen.