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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Jasmine Allday

Phillip Schofield forced to present This Morning ALONE as Holly Willoughby to leave studio

Phillip Schofield will present This Morning alone later in the show as Holly Willoughby heads off to the palace.

There have been reports of a 'bloodbath' incoming at the ITV's mid-morning show amid reports that the pair's friendship has 'cooled' away from the show. Phil released a bombshell statement, where he said the past few weeks had been tough for both him and Holly but vowed that they were still great friends and always supported one another.

As they hosted the ITV show today, Holly and Phil confirmed he would be taking the reigns of the show from around midday this morning, as Holly heads off to Buckingham Palace for her duty with the Prince's Trust Awards.

Holly and Phil kicked off the show together (ITV)

Phil told viewers that Holly would be leaving at midday to help with the award presentation, whilst he would remain at the helm of the ITV show for the last half an hour. The pair will present together until then.

A source recently shared to the Mirror about what's happening backstage: "Phil’s position is looking increasingly precarious. Monday is very much D-day, but the same could apply to any day next week. No one is bigger than the brand."

Insiders have claimed that Phillip is facing the axe from the show if the on-screen chemistry he shares with Holly is off.

A source told The Sun: "This Morning is preparing for some seismic changes this summer — and Phil is lined up as the first major name for the chop when his contract expires this summer. It’s highly unlikely he’ll be back in September."

There are reports of a 'bloodbath' this summer on This Morning (Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

They added how the show are planning for a "new look This Morning" and many "feel it is time for some fresh blood" on the show, with This Morning boss Martin Frizell, who has been in charge since 2016, also reportedly facing the chop.

A source added: "There is talk behind the scenes of Martin also being knifed as a bit of a fall guy, too — which might save some of the even more senior executives at the broadcaster if things spiral further."

Holly has also considered quitting This Morning to protect herself, with a source telling The Mirror: "By removing herself from the situation she could protect herself better. Holly is sick of being lied to. She feels trapped. She knows she could easily find another job at a different channel, so it’s up to ITV to give her assurances that she’ll be taken care of if she stays put."

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