This Morning host Phillip Schofield has announced he is gay in an emotional announcement on television.
The TV presenter, 57, has been married for nearly 27 years and made the announcement this morning alongside his co-host Holly Willoughby.
He wrote in his online statement, which a tearful Holly read out with Phil by her side: “You never know what’s going on in someone’s seemingly perfect life, what issues they are struggling with, or the state of their state of wellbeing – and so you won’t know what has been consuming me for the last few years.
“With the strength and support of my wife and my daughters, I have been coming to terms with the fact and I am gay.
Phil’s eyes filled with tears as he made the emotional announcement on This Morning (Image: ITV)
“This is something that has caused many heart-breaking conversations at home. I have been married to Steph for nearly 27 years, and we have two beautiful grown-up daughters, Molly and Ruby.
“My family have held me so close: they have tried to cheer me up, to smother me with kindness and love, despite their own confusion.
“Yet I can’t sleep and there have been sone very dark moments.
“My inner conflict contrasts with an outside world that has changed so very much for the better.
(Image: ITV)
“Today, quite rightly, being gay is a reason to celebrate and be proud. Yes, I am feeling pain and confusion, but that comes only from the hurt they I am causing to my family.
“Steph has been incredible – I love her so very much. She is the kindest soul I have ever met. My girls have been astonishing in their love, hugs and encouraging words of comfort.
“Both mine and Steph’s entire families have stunned me with their love, instant acceptance and support.
“Of course they are worried about Steph but I know they will scoop us both up.
He broke down in tears as he talked about his family (Image: ITV)
“My friends are the best, especially Holly, who has been so kind and wise – and who has hugged me as I sobbed on her shoulder. At ITV, I couldn’t hope to work with more wonderful, supportive teams…
“Every day on This Morning, I sit in awe of those we meet who have been brave and open in confronting their truth – so now it’s my turn to share mine. This will probably all come as something and I understand, but only by facing this, by being honest, can I hope to find peace in my mind and a way forward. Please be kind, especially to my family. Phillip.”
The presenter became overcome with emotion as he spoke about telling his beloved mum.
He said: “My mum is watching this today.
“She’s been on the phone all morning saying ‘hope you’re okay’ and ‘thinking of you’. I went down to see her, she’s in Cornwall.
“I told her and she said ‘Oh okay, well… I don’t care.”
This Morning continues on Monday at 10am on ITV1
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
