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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Mia O'Hare

Inside This Morning's 'brutal summer bloodbath' - all the names set for the chop

This Morning's Phillip Schofield has immediately quit the ITV show, as a shake-up is set to take place over the summer.

The long serving presenter, 61, has left the show after 20 years amid a major overhaul of the programme and a rumoured 'feud' with co-host Holly.

It comes after recent reports of a 'feud' with co-star Holly Willoughby as their friendship is said to have "cooled".

It sparked questions if he would be able to continue on the programme as the popular duo were said to be "barely speaking".

Now, Phillip has decided to leave the show as he admits that members of staff at ITV have been aware that the situation surrounding himself and Holly can no longer go on.

In a statement, the former host said: "I have always been proud to cover fascinating stories on This Morning. But recently, This Morning itself has become the story.

Holly and Phil's relationship is said to be 'strained' off camera (ITV)

"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."

Reports suggest there will also be huge changes set to face the ITV show over the summer.

Boss of This Morning Martin ­Frizell, who has been in charge since 2016, could also be in line for the chop, according to staff.

Phillip Schofield and This Morning boss Martin Frizell could get the chop (Instagram)

It is believed Holly Willoughby's job will be safe as she remains popular.

“This Morning is preparing for some seismic changes this summer — and Phil is lined up as the first major name for the chop when his contract expires this summer," a source told The Sun.

They claim it is "highly unlikely" the presenter will return in September following the usual summer break.

“There is talk behind the scenes of Martin also being knifed as a bit of a fall guy, too — which might save some of the even more senior executives at the broadcaster if things spiral further," they added.

Martin's handling of queuegate and reports of Holly and Phil's row is said to be viewed as "calamitous" by some while junior members of staff are said to have "struggled" with his way of working.

“The shake-up is going to be from the top down and no one, no matter their status, is bigger than the show.”

The rumoured shake-up comes after a series of issues for Phil and Holly including backlash over queuegate claims and Holly's reported upset after being left "in the dark" over Phillip's brother's sex abuse trial.

Alison and Dermot could replace Phil (Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

Following the reports, Phillip released a statement where he admitted things haven't "been easy" for the pair – which is said to have "blindsided" and "deeply upset" his former TV BFF.

The pair have continued to host This Morning together this week, with many viewers noticing the "awkward" atmosphere between the duo.

A source recently told the Mirror: "Phil’s position is looking increasingly precarious. Monday is very much D-day, but the same could apply to any day next week. No one is bigger than the brand."

There has been much speculation over who could replace Phil if he got the chop, with ITV already having a host of seasoned stars waiting in the wings.

Big Brother star Alison Hammond is a fan favourite on This Morning and stepped in for Phil while he took time off during his brother's trial.

She already presents the Friday shows alongside Dermot O'Leary, who could also take over Phil.

BAFTA host Joel admitted he was 'really nervous' when he presented the show in March, however fans loved him so the comedian may want to return.

Marvin and Rochelle Humes have both hosted This Morning, so could replace Phil (Ken McKay/ITV/REX)
The Mirror reader's favourites to replace Phil are Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes (Graham Stone/REX/Shutterstock)

Rochelle Humes often steps in for Holly and has presented the show with her JLS husband Marvin a number of times.

The father-of-three previously said he had no plans to return to present This Morning alongside his wife again, though he teased "never say never".

Whilst Craig Doyle has been given main presenting duties on This Morning over the last year, teaming up with Alison, Rochelle and Josie Gibson.

Firm favourite Josie fronted the show alongside Phillip in Holly's absence.

Mirror readers have also had their say on who they want to take on the role if Phil leaves as only 11 percent want Phillip and Holly to continue fronting the breakfast show.

The majority of readers want Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford to return to the iconic blue sofa, as they scooped 28 percent of votes.

This Morning regulars Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary were another favourite choice, raking in 25 percent of votes in the poll.

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