This Morning viewers were in disbelief after the Phillip Schofield tribute on today's show.
Monday's episode was the first since the veteran broadcaster announced his exit. Phil quit the show amid reports that 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. “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.
READ MORE: ITV Good Morning Britain viewers baffled as hosts 'ignore' elephant in the room“
"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.”
Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary fronted today's show, which started with a tribute to their departing co-star. Alison said: "We can't start today's show without paying tribute to the man who spent the last two decades sitting on this sofa." She added: "Quite simply, he's one of the best live tv broadcasters this country has ever had. We and all the team wish him all the best for the future."
Dermot said: "As a show, everyone on and off screen at ITV want to say a huge thank you to PhIl for what he's done to make the show such a success over the past 20 years."
The show moved on as the hosts were joined by Gyles Brandreth and Camilla Tominey to discuss the This Morning view. However, fans following the show on Twitter were in disbelief at the short manner of the tribute.
Beth said: "DYING at how all phillip got after 21 years at this morning was a short "tribute" before they moved on from the topic as quickly as possible"
Another user posted: "That was short and sweet that loved no montage of his 20 yrs"
Clare added: "That was short haha 21 years in less than a minute"
Gary commented: "#ThisMorning gives #PhillipSchofield a pathetic 20-second mention at the start of the show."
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