Phillip Schofield has shared why he has quit This Morning after 20 years, saying he made the decision after a 'difficulty few days'. Rumours of a 'rift' between the presenter and his co-host Holly Willoughby have been rife for the last couple of weeks.
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.
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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."
However, Phillip has claimed that "This Morning itself has become the story" and to "protect the show he loves" has decided to 'step back'.
In a statement issued on Saturday (May 20), 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.”
ITV has confirmed that Holly will still hosts the show with other "members of the This Morning family."
Alison Hammond is currently the favourite to replace Phillip Schofield on the popular faytime show, according to the latest odds from Ladbrokes.
Following Phillip's shock resignation on Saturday afternoon it's Alison Hammond who leads the betting at 2/1 to become Holly's new co-host. Fan favourite Rylan Clark is close behind at 3/1 with Dermot O'Leary at 4/1.
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