This Morning viewers rushed to comment as Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary opened the latest episode with a tribute to Phillip Schofield. The pair were not due to host the programme on Monday (May 22), however, they stepped in after it was announced Phillip had quit and Holly Willoughby was subsequently taking an extended break.
ITV announced on Saturday (May 20) that Phillip had sensationally quit This Morning after 20 years. The presenter said in a statement that the programme had 'become the story' and that he wanted to "do what I can to protect the show that I love" after rumours were rife that he and Holly, 42, were 'barely speaking' behind the scenes amid a 'rift' between the pair.
The veteran TV star added: "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.
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“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.”
ITV was quick to confirm that Holly will still host the show with other "members of the This Morning family." But they also confirmed to the Manchester Evening News that viewers will have to wait to see her back on screen.
But opening the first show of the week today (Monday), Alison and Dermot, 49, appeared sombre as they addressed the news and paid tribute to their now-former colleague. "We can’t start today’s show without paying tribute to the man who spent the last two decades sitting on the This Morning sofa. Phillip Schofield," Alison said.
Dermot continued: "So as a show, everyone on and off screen at ITV and This Morning say a huge thank you to Phil for what he’s done to make the show such a success over the last 21 years." 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."
The pair added that Holly Willoughby will return to the sofa on Monday, June 5. But This Morning viewers were unsure by the opening which saw the usual Friday hosts also appear in black clothing.
@AgentDowling tweeted: "Alison and Dermot paying tribute to Philip Schofield as if he passed away.#ThisMorning." @ChantalMascoe said: "Alison and Dermot looking as if someone has died #ThisMorning." @Norfolk_Kez complained: "OMG @thismorning who put that car crash together?! He’s not dead, that was way off the mark! Absolutely terrible! #ThisMorning."
@Fi_digitaldrum claimed: "#ThisMorning open today with an entirely disingenuous 2-second tribute to Philip Schofield, the tone of which sounded like he'd died." @thisisdede_ wrote: "Wow that this morning intro sounded like a death was announced #thismorning." @DebsGlynm added: "60 seconds of a ‘tribute” for 20 years service… Awkward. #ThisMorning."
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