Dermot O'Leary has reached out to fans with a messages after stepping in to replace Phillip Schofield on This Morning this week. Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary stepped in to host the popular ITV daytime show earlier this week following the news over the weekend that Phillip Schofield was to leave the show with immediate effect after almost two decades.
ITV also confirmed Holly Willoughby would not be back on the show until June 5. Stand-in hosts for This Morning, Alison and Dermot were back on the show on Monday, May 22, when they issued a joint statement at the start of the ITV programme about Schofield's departure. As speculation continues over who will permanently replace Schofield, former X Factor host O'Leary has remained largely quiet on social media. However, he reached out to fans on Wednesday (MAY 24) to thank them for their well wishes after he celebrated his 50th birthday.
Birmingham Live reports the star wrote: "Thanks a million for all the lovely messages. Wild swim, brunch, walk, steak. 50… not so bad so far. Dx". Dermot stepped in to replace Schofield, 61, on Monday and Tuesday's episodes.
Alison replied to Dermot on Instagram, saying: "Happy birthday." Rose Ayling Ellis, from EastEnders and Strictly Come Dancing, typed: "Happy Birthday!" Luke Evans said: "Happiest birthday wishes to you ya legend xx"
"Happy birthday my mate. Some head of hair. x," said Paddy McGuinness. Bryony Gordon wrote: "You look about 20. HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Xx" Sarah Millican typed: "Happy birthday xx"
Davina McCall said: "Happy birthday Dermot !!!" Lauren Laverne said: "Looking great on it xxxx" Owain Wyn Evans typed: "50? I don’t believe it sorry! Hope you had a great birthday love!"
"Happy birthday you utter legend" Dr Scott said. "They got the numbers wrong surely! Happy birthday," said another. "Look like 35 mate. Happy birthday x" agreed another. Daniel Mays wrote: "Happy Birthday Dermot". Anna said: "Happy birthday you beauty! 5 decades of fireworks - can’t wait for more."
"Wow! Would have never thought! Happy birthday and many more!" said another fan. "50? Jeez! Look good on it pal!" agreed another.
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