Phillip Schofield broke down in tears on Monday's instalment of This Morning as Dame Kelly Holmes bravely detailed her heartbreaking coming out story.
The ITV presenter, 60, wasn't able to control his emotions and became chocked up as Kelly shared the devastating admission that she felt as though she 'didn't want to be here' amid her crippling fears of coming out as a gay woman.
Viewers watched as both Phil and Kelly struggled to speak as they held back tears with Phillip admitting that he's 'been there' after revealing his sexuality live on This Morning back in 2020.
Throughout the emotional interview, Dame Kelly, 52, admitted that she knew she was a gay woman from the age of 18, but she has only recently plucked up the courage to share her sexuality in the hopes of inspiring others who feel trapped to do the same.
The brave star spoke about her incredibly difficult journey to coming out as she admitted that the pandemic was one of the toughest periods of her life and she wasn't sure whether she would 'make it through'.
Kelly also devastatingly admitted that she's not sure whether she has ever been 'truly happy' in her life while keeping her sexuality and 'identity' a secret.
The Olympic legend fought back tears as she opened up about the freedom she now feels after finally sharing her story.
And Phil was on hand to reassure Kelly that he knows exactly how she feels.
"I have been there. I have sat in that chair and went through the same thing," Phil shared.
The sporting icon said she realised she was gay when she was a soldier in the Women’s Royal Army Corps in 1988 at the age of 17, and kissed a female comrade but she kept that part of herself hidden out of fear of being prosecuted, because same-sex relationships were banned from the forces.
However, the global pandemic showed Kelly that it was time to be her ‘real self’ and express who she is, after remaining closeted led her to breakdowns and suicidal thoughts.
Kelly told the Sunday Mirror: "I needed to do this now, for me. It was my decision. I’m nervous about saying it. I feel like I’m going to explode with excitement.
"Sometimes I cry with relief. The moment this comes out, I’m essentially getting rid of that fear.
Thankfully, Dame Kelly is now in a much healthier and happier place, despite battling depression and ‘not wanting to be here anymore.’
This Morning continues tomorrow at 10am on ITV One.
