Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary were confirmed as This Morning's presenters on Monday last week as Holly Willoughby takes a break over the school holidays and the pair paid tribute to Phillip Schofield following his exit.
Phillip was axed from This Morning over the weekend as ITV released a statement confirming he would be stepping down from presenting the flagship show, which he has co-hosted with Holly Willoughby for over 13 years.
Despite his long tenure on the show, Alison and Dermot began the show on Monday with just a brief mention of Phillip's exit.
Kicking off the show, Alison said: "Now we can't start today's show without paying tribute to the man who has spent the last two decades sitting on this sofa – Phillip Schofield."
"Everyone on and off the screen at ITV and This Morning want to say a huge thank you to Phil for what he's done to make this show a success over the last 21 years," Dermot continued before Alison added: "Quite simply we all know he's one of the best live television broadcasters this country has ever had and we, and all the team, wish him all the best for the future."
Explaining Holly's absence, Dermot said: "Holly is taking a break over half term, she'll be back in the studio in two weeks."
This Morning viewers were left confused by the tribute as one fan tweeted: "That was an awful goodbye segment #thismorning," and another said: "So after 20 years all Scofe gets is a 2 minute tribute at the beginning not at all awkward #ThisMorning."
"#thismorning ok turned on just to see the most insincere tribute and send off ever and l am now switching permanently to another daytime programme. Can’t watch that motley crew now. Its had its day," another added.
A fourth wrote: "Christ, Dermot looks like he's announcing that someone died talking about Schofield leaving #ThisMorning. The only thing that has died Dermot is Phillip Schofield's career and ITV's integrity."
Rumours of a "feud" between Holly and Phil dominated headlines last week and yet This Morning failed to mention the reports during their 'Morning View' segment.
Who should replace Phillip Schofield on This Morning? Vote in our poll HERE to have your say.
On Friday, following what viewers now know was Phillip's last show on Thursday, Alison and Dermot discussed the possibility of This Morning presenters being replaced.
During a discussion about AI technology, Alison said: "We could be replaced one day! Remember when Holly and Phil had that robot in with that woman, it was amazing, I couldn't believe it. Presenters could maybe be replaced by AI. It's kind of like a cloning in a way, and you don't actually have to be there."
On Saturday, ITV confirmed Phillip's exit after more than 20 years on the This Morning sofa.
It was announced Phillip will continue to presenter peak time shows for ITV including next month’s The British Soap Awards and a new prime time series while Holly will remain on This Morning.
Phillip 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.”
Holly Willoughby added: “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.”
