This Morning viewers took to social media this morning to demand ITV makes the current pairing permanent due to their ‘amazing chemistry’. Phillip Schofield dramatically left the daytime TV show over the weekend - and co-host Holly Willoughby is currently on leave.
Alison Hammon and Dermot O’Leary have this week taken on the presenting duties in their absense - but today Craig Doyle stepped in and watchers felt that he brought a great dynamic to the partnership. Phil quit This Morning saying: “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.”
ITV have so far remained tight lipped on any permanent plans - but current odds have Alison Hammond at 6/4 and Dermot O’Leary at 11/4 favourites to be made permanent presenters. Josie Gibson and Rylan Clark-Neal come next in the list but until today Craig Doyle hasn’t featured.
However viewers took to Twitter to demand Craig should be in the running. Tina Biscuits said: “#ThisMorning need to keep Craig Doyle on full time… lovely bloke and not bad to look at either folks.” CallMeRobbb added: “Craig Doyle is the perfect replacement #ThisMorning.”
Bebop felt there was chemistry between the two: “Alison loves old Craigy boy #ThisMorning. Ross added: “There is more fun with Alison and Craig on #ThisMorning.”
SureJan asked: “So we’re all agreed Craig for the new presenter roll then yeah, aye, yeah? Admit it to yourselves, don’t deny him into your life. Embrace The Doyle #thismorning.”
Kellymew_ said: “Alison vibes with Craig so much more than Dermot #thismorning.” Brekkie said: “I do think Craig Doyle is the favourite to replace Phillip. I just get the impression that Fridays and the odd week here and there suits Dermot (and Alison), even with the Fridays and 16 weeks holiday that come with the main role. #ThisMorning” TJ joked: “Alison and Craig actually make a good duo together… shame there’s a feud between them too #ThisMorning”
However Blossom disagreed: “ThisMorning Craig and Josie as replacements, keep Alison and Dermot on Fridays and Holidays.” SureJan came up with a complicated solution: “Craig and Holly Monday to Wednesday, Alison and Holly on a Thursday then Alison and Dermot on a Friday. I have spoken #thismorning.”
ITV said in the wake of Phil’s departure: ““After more than 20 years on the This Morning sofa, Phillip Schofield has stepped back from ITV’s flagship morning show having presented his last episode on Thursday 18 May.
“Having co-hosted the multi-award winning show for two decades, Phillip will continue to present peak time shows for ITV including next month’s The British Soap Wards and a new prime time series.
“Holly Willoughby will remain on This Morning and will co-present with members of the This Morning family.”
