Holly Willoughby has spoken out following news that co-presenter Phillip Schofield has quit This Morning.
His departure was announced today (Saturday 20 May), with a statement from ITV saying: "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."
His longtime co-presenter Holly Willoughby has spoken about about the news, admitting the 'sofa won't feel the same without him'.
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She 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.”
Willoughby - who first presented This Morning alongside Schofield back in 2009 - will return to the show on 5 June after taking an early half term holiday.
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Schofield also 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.
"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."
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Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Managing Director of Media and Entertainment, also paid tribute to the presenter as part of the announcement.
He 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."
Topics: TV And Film, Holly Willoughby, Phillip Schofield
Jess Hardiman