Holly Willoughby has given her response to the news that Phillip Schofield has left This Morning. The 61-year-old presenter announced on Saturday (May 20) afternoon that he would be leaving the daytime TV show with immediate effect after more than 20 years.
It comes after days of speculation about his future due to a rumoured feud with co-host Willoughby. Schofield said he was stepping back from This Morning because the programme “has become the story” and “I want to do what I can to protect the show I love”.
The long-term television personality presented his last episode on Thursday, ITV said. A statement on ITV's website reads: "Phillip Schofield will step down from This Morning with “immediate effect” after more than 20 years on the ITV programme, the broadcaster has announced.
READ MORE: Phillip Schofield's full statement as he announces This Morning departure
Schofield 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.”
Taking to Instagram after the news broke, Willoughby said the sofa "wouldn't be the same" without Schofield. "Hi everyone … 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," she wrote. "The sofa won't feel the same without him."
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