Dan Wootton isn't usually very shy when it comes to sharing his opinion on fellow broadcasters - and his latest on ITV This Morning presenter Philip Schofield is no different. The GB News journalist, 40, took aim at Philip during Monday's (April 17) episode of Dan Wootton Tonight, which aired the same day as Philip returned to screens after a lengthy absence.
In a scathing rant, Dan branded the 61-year-old the 'most loathsome person on TV'. Clearly unhappy in seeing the This Morning star back at his hosting duties, Dan's bitter tirade didn't end there, as reported by the Express.
"ITV's golden boy Phillip Schofield returned to our screens this morning as the presenter thanked viewers for their recent support during turbulent times," he said during the heated debate with Carole Malone and Benjamin Butterworth. "He returned to This Morning, this is interesting, isn't it? Without co-star Holly Willoughby, who is apparently suffering from shingles."
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Commenting on Philip's replacements while he's been away - including Alison Hammond, who presented the show last week with Holly, Dan added: "Alison Hammond, God, she's a million times better than him." He went on to claim if Alison took Philip's spot more often, the future of the show would be "much brighter".
Benjamin swiftly came to Philip's defence and pointed out work he's done on the ITV, which prompted Dan to ask: "You like Schofield, you think he's better than Alison Hammond, do you?"
Benjamin replied: "Well, I think they're both great, but I think Phillip Schofield is a very good interviewer. You know, they do some proper politics on that show," Carole quickly fumed: "Based on what? He is not a political interviewer!"
Recalling Alison's recent time on the show, Dan continued: "And by the way, I can tell you having worked with both... Alison - the nicest person on TV, Phillip Schofield? Probably the most loathsome."
The savage dig toward Phillip came after Dan also questioned Phillip's image as a "hero" to the LGBTQ+ community after he came out as gay live on air in 2020. Benjamin, however, described the moment as "very brave and very moving".
Upon his return yesterday following three weeks away, Philip told viewers: "I wanted to say that it is really lovely to be back. I have missed the show and everyone here. And also to you, I wanted to say thank you for all your kind messages and support, which were really appreciated so thank you very much indeed."
The ITV host's initial absence was due to his brother, Timothy, who has been on trial for sexually assaulting a teenage boy over a period of three years. Last Monday, Timothy, 54, was found guilty of the charges and is expected to face his sentence next month at Bristol Crown Court.
This Morning airs on weekdays from 10am on ITV.
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