After more than 20 years presenting ITV’s flagship daytime programme, Phillip Schofield has announced his departure from This Morning.
In a statement released on Saturday, Schofield revealed his intentions to leave the show: “I have always been proud to cover fascinating stories on This Morning. But recently, This Morning itself has become the story. I understand that ITV have decided the current situation can’t go on, and I want to do what I can to protect the show that I love. So, I have agreed to step down from This Morning with immediate effect, in the hope that the show can move forward to a bright future.”
The announcement of Schofield’s shock departure follows the news of his brother’s 12-year jail sentencing after being convicted of child sex offences, as well as further reports of a rift between him and his co-presenter and friend Holly Willoughby. The duo has a friendship spanning more than a decade, but recently there has been a lot of speculation surrounding the pair’s off-screen relationship.
With media reports rife with attention on the nature of Schofield and Willoughby’s behind the scenes friendship, all eyes were on the show as they both shared the infamous blue sofa on what we now know was his final week presenting.
Tributes have been paid to Schofield and his longevity on This Morning, with notable acknowledgements from Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary who opened Monday’s episode of the show, wishing him “all the best for the future.”
Releasing a statement on her Instagram, Willoughby said: “It’s been over 13 great years presenting This Morning with Phil, and I want to take this opportunity to thank him for all of his knowledge, his experience and his humour.”
ITV have since said that Willoughby will continue co-presenting the programme “with members of the This Morning family.” This format will come into effect on Monday 5th June when she returns to screens after a break during the half-term.
Although This Morning fans won’t now be seeing Schofield every morning, he will be back on screens soon as he is set to present The Soap Awards next month on June 3rd.
Words by Sara Baalla
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