Phillip Schofield announced he will be stepping down as host of This Morning with immediate effect but his statement failed to address his co-host of over 13 years Holly Willoughby.
The TV stalwart 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.”
ITV confirmed Holly would remain on the flagship programme and will co-host with other members of the This Morning family.
Despite sharing a long TV career together, Phillip didn't address Holly in his statement, which surprised many This Morning viewers.
On fan commented on social media: "Phillip Schofield has left This Morning - issuing a statement with no reference to Holly Willoughby who will stay on the show."
"Working with someone that long and no mention of them in your statement...," another said and a third added: "Holly paid tribute to Phil but he has nothing to say about her interesting."
Meanwhile, Holly shared a sweet tribute to her former co-host on Instagram.
She wrote: "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. The sofa won't feel the same without him."
Phillip shared his statement on Instagram but once again did not mention Holly.
When ITV confirmed the news of Phillip's departure, Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Managing Director, Media and Entertainment said: “Phillip is hands down one of the best broadcasters of his generation and we thank him for his two decades worth of absolutely terrific television on the This Morning sofa.
“This Morning is made by one of the best and most diligent teams in television, who produce over 12 hours of live television each week. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Phillip starting with The British Soap Awards in June and a brand new peak time series to come.”
Phillip will present next month’s The British Soap Awards and a new prime time series.
