Reports of Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield’s feud have continued as the public call for the hosts to be replaced on This Morning.
However, insider sources now claim the reported feud is not a new development in the dynamic between Holly and Phill, stating that it started three years ago.
The apparent rift allegedly started after Holly chose to leave her and Phil’s agents, YMU Group, to start her own agency called Roxy Management.
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However, the move reportedly became embroiled in a legal dispute over YMU’s claim for 15% of her future earnings. Phillip is a shareholder of the YMU.
Last year, Holly won £1 million in an out-of-court settlement with the YMU.
(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
According to an insider source, the incident saw Holly attempting to separate herself from Phillip back in 2020.
They told The Sun: “The legal issues rumbled on for 18 months but Holly fought for what was right.
“Ultimately, Phil chose to start and Holly chose to leave, it wasn’t easy at the time.”
Holly also reportedly aimed to enable herself to continue hosting outside of the duo. For example, the presenter took on ‘I’m a Celebrity in 2018 without Phil.
(Image: ITV)
The solo gigs allegedly annoyed Phil, who hosts ‘Dancing on Ice’ and ‘This Morning’ with Holly.
The source told The Sun: “It was widely known in the industry that Phil was annoyed Holly was offered the jungle.
“It was a massive break for her and she more than proved her mettle. Phil was naturally jealous it wasn’t him.”
However, since then the situation has continued to worsen from other pressures.
(Image: ITV)
The pair’s popularity as hosts plummeted with the public after it was felt that the Holly and Phil queue-jumped to see the Queen lying in state.
Phil’s brother Tim was also arrested and charged with child abuse which has further taken a toll.
The source said: “The court case has been difficult and while Phil has done nothing wrong, it has impacted both of them and been a real strain.”
“Although their partnership had been weakening, this was a real catalyst for change.
“Holly has been advised to focus on her own career and keep moving forwards.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
