Holly Willoughby says ‘the couch won’t feel the same without him’ but Phillip Schofield makes no mention of his This Morning co-star when he quits: Full statements
Holly Willoughby said ‘the sofa won’t feel the same without’ Phillip Schofield as he sensationally left This Morning today – but the departing presenter made no mention of his co-star and friend in his exit statement.
Schofield penned a 122-word message to fans announcing he was leaving ITV’s premier weekday morning show today, while Willoughby and the broadcaster’s managing director of Media and Entertainment Kevin Lygo also issued statements.
In it, he acknowledged that This Morning “has become the story” after 10 days of intense media scrutiny amid reports of an altercation between the show’s two hosts.
He said he “understood that ITV has decided that the current situation cannot continue”, and wanted to do what he could to “protect the show I love”.
However, he made no mention of Willoughby, who he’s been the face of daytime TV with for 13 years, as his co-star – who remains on the show – insisted that ‘the couch won’t feel the same without him’.
Holly Willoughby said ‘the sofa won’t feel the same without’ Phillip Schofield as he sensationally quit This Morning today – but the outgoing presenter made no mention of his co-star and friend in his exit statement
Phillip Schofield’s full statement after he sensationally quit ITV’s This Morning
Holly Willoughby full statement after her co-star sensationally quit ITV’s This Morning
ITV’s Managing Director of Media and Entertainment Kevin Lygo also made a statement
Full statement from Phillip Schofield
‘I’ve always been proud to write fascinating stories on This Morning. But recently, This Morning itself has become the story.
“During my career in TV – including the very difficult past few days – I have always tried my best to be honorable and kind.
“I understand that ITV has decided that the current situation cannot continue and I want to do what I can to protect the show I love.
So I’ve agreed to step down from This Morning effective immediately, in hopes that the show has a bright future.
“I want to thank everyone who has supported me – especially the wonderful viewers of This Morning – and I’ll see you all next month at the Soap Awards.”
Holly Willoughby’s full statement
“It has been over 13 amazing years presenting This Morning with Phil and I would like to take this opportunity to thank him for all his knowledge, his experience and his humour. The bank won’t feel the same without him.’
Kevin Lygo’s full statement
“Phillip is without a doubt one of the best broadcasters of his generation and we thank him for his two decades of absolutely amazing television on the This Morning bank.
“This Morning was created by one of television’s best and most diligent teams, producing 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 coming up.”