This is the moment an emotional Phillip Schofield hit out at an “abhorrent” This Morning guest who said it was “not good” for children to be gay.
The popular TV presenter emotionally came out today with the full support of his family and This Morning pals.
“I am gay,” said Schofield, one of broadcaster ITV’s biggest stars. “This decision is essential for me and essential for my head. Every person I tell, it gets a little lighter and a little lighter.”
Back in 2017 the presenter went toe-to-toe with Andrea Williams for her “medieval” views on gender identity on This Morning.
Williams, the CEO of campaign group Christian Concern, was appearing in support of a maths teacher suspended for misgendering a transgender student in class.
After a tense discussion about gender identity, a clearly emotional Phil asked her if she would “help” kids who identify as gay become straight.
He hit out at Christian Concern’s Amanda Williams for her ‘abhorrent’ views (Image: ITV)
She said: “Very often when we see people that identify as homosexual it’s not good for them to live out in such a lifestyle.
“It’s not good for our children to be highly sexualised.”
Suddenly ending the interview, he raged: “I’m finding this utterly abhorrent.
“We’ll get back to the show, and back to 2017 and not medieval Britain, in just a moment.”
He broke down in tears as came out as gay today (Image: ITV)
Schofield came out as gay today with an emotional interview on the This Morning sofa.
He wrote in a 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.
Schofield announced he is gay in a moving This Morning statement (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 some very dark moments.
He was supported by co-presenter Holly Willoughby (Image: ITV)
“My inner conflict contrasts with an outside world that has changed so very much for the better.
“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 support both us.
“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’.”
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
