Alison Hammond has spoken out on social media for the first time since Phillip Schofield's exit from This Morning was announced. The presenter, who has since stepped up to hosting duties following the shock news, is usually quite active on Instagram but has remained quiet on the platform since last week.
The ITV daytime show's usual Friday host has been fronting the programme after news that the 61-year-old veteran presenter was to 'step back' from the programme after 20 years was announced on Saturday (May 20).
It came after rumours were rife that he and Holly Willoughby were 'barely speaking' behind the scenes amid a 'rift' between the pair. His exit was with 'immediate effect', meaning he appeared for the last time on the programme last Thursday (May 18).
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However, despite ITV confirming Holly, 42, would continue to host the show with other 'members of the This Morning family', she also didn't appear back on the programme after the weekend's news following her decision to take an extra week off work ahead of her pre-planned half-term break next week.
She will therefore return to the helm of the show on June 5 meaning other presenters are having to step in. Alison and her co-host Dermot O'Leary were drafted in to host and opening the first show of the week on Monday (May 24) Alison, 48, and Dermot, 49, appeared sombre as they addressed the news and paid tribute to their now-former colleague.
But breaking her online silence on Wednesday (May 24), Alison took to social media to send a heartfelt message to Dermot O'Leary on his 50th birthday as he took the day off presenting duties to celebrate and was replaced by Craig Doyle.
Sharing a beaming selfie of the pair, taken on This Morning's famous sofa, she said: "Happy birthday babs !! Many happy returns my lovely. Have the best day." Other members of the This Morning team were quick to respond, with Dr Zoe Williams writing: "Happy birthday Dermot you lovely soul."
The show's resident baker Juliet Sear echoed: "What a lovely soul he is happy birthday @dermotoleary." While beauty expert Ateh Jewel replied: "Happy happy birthday."
But fans were quick to make things also about Alison and not just the birthday boy as they gushed over their on-screen partnership. @alex.louca.5 said: "My favourite Duo on This Morning!! Happy Birthday Dermot!!" @apropoofnothing commented: "The best duo ITV ever had."
@amira_murphy_freda_ added: "Absolutely love the joy and the laughter and the teamwork with @alisonhammond55 & @dermotoleary Happy birthday @dermotoleary may your birthday be blessed each and everyday of good health and happiness."
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