This Morning viewers were gobsmacked at the start of today's show.
Monday's edition of ITV's flagship daytime programme was hosted by Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary. It was the first episode since Phillip Schofield dramatically confirmed he had left the show after 21 years.
The 61-year-old has quit amid reports an alleged feud with Holly Willoughby had reached fever pitch. He said: "I have always been proud to cover fascinating stories on This Morning. But recently, This Morning itself has become the story.
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“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.”
Alison and Dermot started the show with a tribute to their former co-star. We have included every word of the exchange below.
Alison said: "Now we can't start today's show without paying tribute to the man who spent the last two decades sitting on the This Morning sofa, Phillip Schofield."
Dermot stepped in and said: "So, as a show, everyone on and offscreen at ITV and This Morning want to say a huge thank you to Phil for what he's done to make the show such a success over the last 21 years."
Alison continued: "Quite simply, we all know he's one of the best live television broadcasters this country has ever had. We, and all the team, wish him all the best for the future."
Dermot added: "Holly is now taking a break over the half term. She will be back in the studio in two weeks on Monday June 5."
Fans following the show on Twitter were in disbelief as they claimed the tribute was short.
Jules said: "Well that was odd #ThisMorning They literally had no idea how to deal with that. Alison looking uncomfortable and Dermot stony faced delivering a ‘blink and you’ll miss it’ weak ‘tribute’ to Phillip Schofield without any good bits! Now we wait for whatever shocking news drops"
Paul added: "Blink and you miss it mention of Phil"
Beth said: "DYING at how all Phillip got after 21 years at this morning was a short "tribute" before they moved on from the topic as quickly as possible"
Another user posted: "That was short and sweet that loved no montage of his 20 yrs"
Clare added: "That was short haha 21 years in less than a minute"
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