Holly Willoughby to host Surprise, Surprise

Holly Willoughby is set to host a new series of 'Surprise, Surprise', which was originally presented by Cilla Black.

Holly Willoughby is set to host a new series of 'Surprise, Surprise'.

The blonde beauty is being lined up to present the ITV1 show - originally hosted by Cilla Black from 1984 to 2001 - which will feature uplifting features, such as bringing distant relatives back together as well as trademark practical jokes and prank phone calls.

A source said: "'Surprise, Surprise' was a big hit when it aired in the eighties and nineties and viewers remember it fondly. We'll be updating the show and giving it a modern twist but the essence will still be the same.

"Some of the best episodes were when we reunited family members who hadn't seen each other for decades so we'll hopefully be doing that again."

It had been thought Holly - who currently presents 'This Morning' alongside Phillip Schofield - had ruined her chances of presenting the series after quitting ITV1's 'Dancing On Ice' in favour of upcoming BBC One talent show 'The Voice'.

However, sources insist she is still in the running, with one telling The Sun newspaper: "Holly is still very much in the frame to do it."

The first show will air in the autumn and if successful, it is likely to lead to a series or at least several specials.