Phillip Schofield confirmed Holly Willoughby "was off" at the start of today's This Morning.
The broadcasting partnership returned to front Wednesday's edition of ITV's flagship daytime programme. The two reacted to last night's Prince's Trust awards at the start of the latest episode.
Holly attended the ceremony at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, which recognises young people who have succeeded against the odds to have positive impact on the local community. Holly's duties as part of the event meant she had to dash off from This Morning early as last night's award winners would meet King Charles III.
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She said: "I've put on my posh dress today because later on this afternoon I am heading to Buckingham Palace and there the King will be. We get to introduce the award winners to the King so he can say well done, which is all quite exciting isn't it?"
Phil is set to present alone after Holly's early exit as he said: "You're off midday-ish and I'm holding the fort. No problem. It's fine."
This Morning has been rocked with controversy this week amid reports Holly and Phil's working relationship has become strained. It emerged this weekend that Holly had reportedly cut ties with her long-time TV co-host and close friend.
The Mirror exclusively reported that Holly had been pushing for ITV to make a decision on her co-host so she can rebrand herself and plan for the future if required.
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