Rochelle Humes has issued a heartfelt tribute to Phillip Schofield.
The two have regularly fronted episodes of This Morning together. ITV's flagship daytime programme has been rocked with drama after Phil quit over the weekend.
The veteran broadcaster announced he had exited amid speculation an alleged feud with Holly Willoughby has 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.”
Rochelle has taken to Instagram and thanked Phil as she issued an emotional statement. She said: "I've proudly been a part of the This Morning family for almost 10 years and over the last few, it has been an absolutely pleasure learning so much from you. Thanks for all the lessons - you're a fountain of love knowledge and laughter."
Today's This Morning was fronted by Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary. The two issued a tribute to Phil at the start of the show as Dermot said: "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."
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