Phillip Schofield has quit This Morning after more than 20 years on the ITV show.
The TV presenter, 61, stepped down from his role on the beloved daytime show on Saturday (May 20) following reports of a feud with his co-host Holly Willoughby.
In a statement released by ITV bosses, Phillip said: “I have always been proud to cover fascinating stories on This Morning. But recently, This Morning itself has become the story.
READ MORE: Holly Willoughby confirms ITV’s This Morning future after Phillip Schofield quits
“Throughout my career in TV – including the very difficult last few days – I have always done my best to be honourable and kind.
(Image: ITV)
“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.”
He continued: “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.”
(Image: ITV)
Holly Willoughby added: “It’s been over 13 great years presenting This Morning with Phil and I want to take this opportunity to thank him for all of his knowledge, his experience and his humour. This sofa won’t feel the same without him.”
Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Managing Director, Media and Entertainment said: “Phillip is hands down one of the best broadcasters of his generation and we thank him for his two decades worth of absolutely terrific television on the This Morning sofa.
“This Morning is made by one of the best and most diligent teams in television, who produce over 12 hours of live television each week.
(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
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“We look forward to continuing our relationship with Phillip starting with The British Soap Awards in June and a brand new peak time series to come.”
Holly will return to This Morning on Monday 5th June after the mum-of-three announced she was taking an early half-term holiday starting Monday May 22.
Phillip’s explosive exit comes after reports that he and Holly were no longer close with sources revealing the pair “barely speak” off camera.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
