ITV confirmed Phillip Schofield would continue to host the British Soap Awards next month despite stepping down from his role on This Morning after 21 years.
Since the announcement, there have been fears Phillip's presence at the awards ceremony will be a distracting one and move focus away from those actors looking to be recognised for their hard work.
British soap star Debbie Arnold, who is best known for her portrayal of April Branning in EastEnders but has also starred in Coronation Street, Emmerdale, Hollyoaks and Doctors, was asked in a recent interview if she "didn't like idea of tainted Phillip Schofield" hosting the awards.
She replied: "It's not tainted Phillip Schofield as much as the fact that it will all be about him and not about these other poor actors who spent years trying to get these awards.
"It will just be all about Phillip, nobody will even be looking at them, they'll just be looking at him."
Speaking about those who are nominated for awards, she told GB News: "I don't think they'll be upset, he hasn't done anything to harm any actors...but they will definitely want the evening to be about them and surely if he hosts it it will all be about him."
Meanwhile, there have been reports over fears Phillip's presence at the awards ceremony could be a concern.
A source said "It's a big Saturday night event with celebrities and a paying public audience in the theatre. It's happening very soon. What if viewers side with Holly and Phil gets jeered?"
The insider continued to The i: 'It's a high-risk return for Phil and his presence could overshadow the event."
Announcing his departure from This Morning last weekend, Phillip said: “I have always been proud to cover fascinating stories on This Morning. But recently, This Morning itself has become the story.
“Throughout my career in TV – including the very difficult last few days – I have always done my best to be honourable and kind. I understand that ITV has 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. I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me – especially This Morning’s amazing viewers – and I’ll see you all for the Soap Awards next month.”
