Phillip Schofield has left This Morning, ITV have confirmed in a statement, with the presenter having helmed his last show of the programme on 18 May.
They said: "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 Willoughby will remain on This Morning and will co-present with members of the This Morning family."
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Schofield and Willoughby first presented This Morning together in 2009, she will be back on the show on 5 June after taking an early half term holiday.
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.
"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."
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"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."
Speaking of Schofield's departure, Willoughby 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."
Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Managing Director of Media and Entertainment, also paid tribute to the presenter as part of the announcement.
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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, ITV, Phillip Schofield, This Morning
Joe Harker