Holly Willoughby releases statement after Phillip Schofield quits This Morning

Holly Willoughby has released a statement after Phillip Schofield quits This Morning.

After more than 20 years on the ITV show, Phillip has stepped back from This Morning, having presented his last episode on Thursday 18 May.

The broadcaster has co-hosted the multi-award winning show for two decades, and will continue to present peak time shows for ITV including next month’s The British Soap Awards and a new prime time series, ITV said during a statement.

ITV

Phillip also released a statement, which read: “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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His co-host Holly said: "Hi everyone. 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."

Holly will remain on This Morning and will co-present with members of the This Morning family.

Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Managing Director, Media and Entertainment added: “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.”

Some reports have alleged that the Holly and Philip's relationship off-screen has come under strain in recent weeks.

Philip, who recently returned to the show after taking pre-planned leave during his brother’s sex abuse trial at Exeter Crown Court last month, previously released a statement to suggest that 'the last few weeks haven’t been easy for either of us'.

“As I have said before, Holly is my rock. We’re the best of friends – as always, she is an incredible support on screen, behind the scenes and on the phone,” Philip said.

“Holly has always been there for me, through thick and thin.

"And I’ve been there for her.

“The last few weeks haven’t been easy for either of us.”