Phillip Schofield's return to TV already confirmed…

Phillip Schofield's return to TV already confirmed after Holly Willoughby 'snub' spotted in statement

Phillip Schofield's return to TV has already been confirmed after he sensationally quit This Morning after 20 years. The presenter said in a statement on Saturday (May 20) that the ITV daytime show had 'become the story' and that he wanted to "do what I can to protect the show that I love."

Phillip, who it was confirmed had already presented his last episode on Thursday, May 18, 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."

The 61-year-old added: "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."

The news came amid weeks of reports of a rift between Phillip and his co-host Holly Willoughby with claims the pair were 'barely speaking' behind the scenes. As Phillip's announcement was made, ITV confirmed that Holly, 42, will remain on the show and will co-present with members of the This Morning family.

And Phillip's return to TV has already been revealed as he added at the end of his statement: "And I’ll see you all for the Soap Awards next month."

The annual awards are set to take place at The Lowry in Salford on June 3 and are set to be broadcast on ITV1 and ITVX at a later date. The glitzy night sees the stars of Coronation Strete, Emmerdale, This Morning and Doctors out in force as they face being rewarded for their work on screen over the last year.

Holly and Phillip during what is now their last episode of This Morning together (ITV)

Fans can vote for their favourites in the Best Leading Performer and Best British Soap categories. And for the first time since 2014, the Best Villain category has been returned to a public vote after being judged by a panel since 2015 while the Best Young Performer category has also switched back to a public vote.

But aside from his return, fans and commentators have been analysing Phillip and Holly's statements on his shock exit and claim to have spotted a 'snub' on both sides.

Holly, who has hosted This Morning with Phillip since 2009 and also host Dancing on Ice together 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."

GB News' Dan Wooton remarked: "No reference to friendship in her statement." @superTV247 tweeted: "Short statement from Holly Willoughby. #ThisMorning." @RyanJL posted: "Damn, that statement from Holly Willoughby just says it all without saying a word. Wrap up warm, it’s freezing in here."

@LaRainbow commented: "Wow. Philip Schofield has left #ThisMorning - no mention of Holly Willoughby in his statement." @JoshRomOnAir added: "Phil not mentioning ‘best friend’ Holly Willoughby in his exit statement."

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