JOSIE Gibson today revealed the “real reason” she didn’t replace Holly Willoughby on This Morning.

The fan favourite missed out to Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard who were given the job of being the ITV show’s main hosts.

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Josie Gibson is a popular This Morning hostCredit: Rex

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The TV star has revealed the reason why she didn’t replace Holly Willoughby as main hostCredit: Rex

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Fans called for Josie to be given the top jobCredit: Rex

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Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley where given the job of being the show’s main hostsCredit: Rex
But Josie, 39, has now explained she could never have replaced Holly after she left This Morning, due to family commitments.

The TV star – who first shot to fame when she won Big Brother in 2010 – is a single mum-of-one, raising her young son Reggie.

Speaking to the Mail Josie said: “If I lived in London I would have loved the job.

“But I don’t live in London, I live [in Bath], and this is where I am, and this where my family is this, where my life is. So, and I, you know I will never get this time back.”

Josie went on: “This Morning have been so good to me.

“They are really understanding with Reggie. Juggling mum and everything.

“It’s just nice to have people that you work with in this industry.”

Earlier this year, Josie spoke about speculation over her whereabouts after fans wondered if had she had quit This Morning.

She said on her Instagram Story: “Alreeet lovers, Just to confirm, I have not left This Morning.

“I keep getting asked why I’ve left, so I thought it’s easier to clear up the rumour mill on here. I am eternally grateful for all your love and support and I can not thank you enough.”

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Josie took a few months off from This Morning at the beginning of the year.

During this time she shared a string of cryptic remarks and some thoughts about taking space from “drama”.

She posted another quote on her Story that read: “The older you get the more you choose calm over conflict and distance over disrespect.

“Drama becomes intolerant to you and your peace becomes your ultimate priority.

“You start surrounding yourself with people who are good for your mental health, heart and soul.”

Holding hands

Meanwhile, earlier today The Sun exclusively revealed how Josie and fellow ITV presenter Stephen Mulhern were caught holding hands backstage whilst filming Saturday Night Takeaway this weekend.

The presenters, who are both currently thought to be single, featured in the all-star cast of Ant and Dec’s last ever show.

The pair have been friends for years as part of ITV’s stable of talent but were snapped sharing the sweet moment during rehearsals on Saturday.

Asked about their relationship status, Josie, 39, joked: “I’m in love with Stephen Mulhern. There you go.”

She added to the Mail: “But story of my life, I don’t think he loves me.”

The pair have been friends for years as part of ITV’s stable of talent but were snapped sharing the sweet moment during rehearsals on Saturday.

Asked about their relationship status, Josie, 39, joked: “I’m in love with Stephen Mulhern. There you go.”

She added to the Mail: “But story of my life, I don’t think he loves me.”

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Josie shot to fame when she won Big Brother in 2010