Holly Willoughby 39-word statement as Phillip Schofield quits This …

Holly Willoughby has reacted to the news that Phillip Schofield has quit ITV's This Morning.

ITV confirmed on Saturday that Phillip has presented his final show[1] - on Thursday May 18 - and he will no longer be on screen alongside Holly. It comes after a turbulent few weeks for the star due to a reported fall-out with Holly and his brother appearing in court.

Reacting to the news Holly said: “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.”

ITV has said Willoughby will remain on the show and will “co-present with members of the This Morning family”.

His departure comes amid reports of a rift between Schofield and Willoughby and after his brother, Timothy Schofield, was sentenced to 12 years in jail on Friday after being convicted of child sex offences.

The presenter also shared the news in a post to his Instagram story. Schofield and Willoughby have presented the show together since 2009 and also co-host ITV’s Dancing On Ice.

They have been open about their close friendship over the years, which has included sharing pictures on social media of them while on joint holidays with their families. After reports of the pair’s relationship coming under strain, last week, Schofield said in a statement to The Sun that Willoughby is his “rock”.

References

  1. ^ Phillip has presented his final show (www.examinerlive.co.uk)
  2. ^ Aldi, Asda, Lidl and M&S yellow sticker shopping times according to Which? (www.examinerlive.co.uk)