Phillip Schofield has quit This Morning - and has already presented his last show. After more than 20 years on the This Morning sofa, the veteran TV presenter has stepped back from the ITV daytime show having presented his last episode on Thursday, May 18.
ITV has confirmed that Holly Willoughby will remain on This Morning and will co-present with members of the This Morning family.
Phillip, 61, said in a statement: "I have always been proud to cover fascinating stories on This Morning. But recently, This Morning itself has become the story.
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"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."
Holly, 41, ahs also addressed Phillip's exit and said: "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."
Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Managing Director, Media and Entertainment, added: "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."
The news comes after a reported 'rift' behind the scenes between Phillip and Holly. The duo, who have hosted the ITV daytime show together for 14 years, are reported to be 'barely speaking' behind the scenes. Claims of issues between the duo have been brewing in recent weeks after the presenters failed to host the programme together for a number of weeks.
Phillip recently returned to the show after taking pre-planned leave around his brother’s sex abuse trial at Exeter Crown Court last month, with The Sun previously reporting the absence had contributed to a “cooling” of their friendship. Holly herself then was forced to take time out when she was struck down by shingles.
But last week, Phillip hailed Holly as his "rock" in an unusual statement to The Sun following reports the pair’s relationship has come under strain. He added: “We’re the best of friends – as always, she is an incredible support on screen, behind the scenes and on the phone.
"Holly has always been there for me, through thick and thin. And I’ve been there for her. The last few weeks haven’t been easy for either of us."
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