Phillip Schofield resigns from This Morning with immediate effect following feud with Holly Willoughby
Phillip Schofield has resigned as a presenter from This Morning with immediate effect.
ITV
Phillip Schofield has resigned as a presenter from This Morning with immediate effect.
Schofield announced his decision on his Instagram page.
It comes amid a feud between This Morning presenters Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield.
Schofield said in a statement: "I have always been proud to cover fascinating stories on This Morning. But recently, This Morning itself has become the story.
Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield's friendship had reportedly broken down in recent months
PA
"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 Willoughby also released a statement on Schofield's departure.
The This Morning presenter paid tribute to her former colleague: "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's Managing Director of Media and Entertainment, Kevin Lygo said regarding Schofield: "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."
Holly and Phillip first co-presented This Morning together in 2009.
PA
Holly and Phillip first co-presented This Morning together in 2009.
However, in recent months tension had grown between the pair.
Schofield publicly addressed his rift with Willoughby recently, saying: “The last few weeks haven’t been easy for either of us.
“As I have said before, Holly is my rock.”