ITV has revealed Phillip Schofield‘s resignation from This Morning after 20 years, just days following a suspected feud with Holly Willoughby.
The 61-year-old and his daytime television co-host, 41, had been the subject of conjecture after it was stated they were ‘barely communicating’ behind-the-scenes and that their relationship had ‘cooled’.
While they have maintained a united front on the This Morning sofa, and Phil recently insisted that they are “still the best of friends,” rumours have persisted, with reports escalating to claims that Phil is “refusing to quit This Morning,” with one source calling the situation a “runaway train that cannot be stopped.”
Phil has subsequently declared that he would step down while Holly will continue, and they have already given their final show together.
ITV confirmed on Saturday: ‘After more than 20 years on the This Morning sofa, Phillip Schofield has stepped back from ITV’s flagship morning show having presented his last episode on Thursday 18 May.
‘Having co-hosted the multi-award winning show for two decades, Phillip will continue to present peak time shows for ITV including next month’s The British Soap Awards and a new prime time series.’
Holly will then present with members of the crew, taking over for Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary, who host the Friday version of the show.
‘I have always been happy to cover great topics on This Morning,’ Phil remarked as he announced his departure.
‘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.’
Holly 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.
‘The 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.’
‘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.’
