Holly Willoughby will be taking an "early break" from This Morning after Phillip Schofield quit the show.
Holly and Phil were due to front the ITV staple as usual on Monday May 22, but today Phil sensationally announced that he had already presented his last show and would be leaving the programme with immediate effect.
He said in a statement: "I have always been proud to cover fascinating stories on This Morning. But recently, This Morning itself has become the story.
READ MORE: Holly Willoughby responds after Phillip Schofield quits This Morning
“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.”
Holly and Phil usually take a break over the school holidays, with the pair scheduled to be off screens from May 29, but this has been brought forward, following Phil's departure.
The ECHO understands that Holly will not be seen on screen again until June 5, when she will co-present with other members from the "This Morning" family for now.
Following Phil's departure Holly issued her own statement, she said: “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.”
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