Phillip Schofield has returned to This Morning for the first time in weeks following his brother's trial as Holly Willoughby battles a nasty illness.
Phillip has been absent from the show since Thursday, March 23, but makes his return today alongside Rochelle Humes, who is stepping in for Holly. Phillip took time out during his brother's sex abuse trial, but speaking on the ITV show today he thanked fans for their support and admitted it was good to be back, as reports MEN.
After sending his well wishes to Holly, Phillip said: "I'd just like to say, it is really lovely to be back. I have missed the show and everyone here and also to you. I wanted to say thank you for your kind messages and support which were really appreciated. Thank you very much indeed."
He then added to Rochelle: "On with the show... Shall we?"
Timothy Schofield was found guilty at Exeter Crown Court of sexually abusing a teenage boy over a period of three years and will remain in custody ahead of sentencing at Bristol Crown Court on May 19.
Timothy, 54, was charged with 11 sexual offences involving a child between 2016 and 2019, including two of sexual activity with a child. Following the guilty verdict in court, Phillip said at the time: "I no longer have a brother" and "welcomed" the guilty verdicts for the "despicable crimes".
In a bout of bad luck, Holly revealed over the weekend that she has come down with a nasty illness so could be missing from This Morning all week. Speaking to her 8.2 million Instagram followers, Holly wrote: "Hi, just to let you know, I may be away for the rest of the week as I have Shingles."
She added: "I'll be back as soon as I'm better. Huge love."
This Morning shared a statement confirming Holly's absence for the week, which confirmed Phillip's return after a three-week break from the show.
A statement said: "Tomorrow at 10am on ITV1 and STV, it's welcome back after the Easter holidays to Phillip and get better soon to Holly who's off ill for a few days. Phillip and Rochelle have a packed show... and a very special live announcement from Alison Hammond around midday."
Speaking of Phillip's return to This Morning, a source telling The Sun: "Both Phillip and ITV agreed the time was right for his return."
"He is keen for normal life to return and is very grateful for all the support from colleagues and friends behind the scenes. Everyone at ITV wants him back on air."
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