ITV's This Morning returns today for the first time without Phillip Schofield since he announced his immediate departure from the show.
The presenter announced his departure on Saturday after hosting for more than 20 years. Phil will continue to present peak time shows for ITV, including next month's The British Soap Awards and a new prime time series.
His replacement has not yet been announced. Today fans were given a taste of what could be as Dermot O'Leary, a favourite to replace Phil , took over the show in the absence of Holly Willoughby, co-hosting with Alison Hammond, who is also tipped to join full-time.
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Other favourites among bookies to join the show to host with Holly Willoughby are Rochelle Humes, Joel Dommett, and Phil Vickery, according to BettingSites.co.uk. Ore Oduba, Lisa Snowdon, Marvin Humes and Eamonn Holmes are also tipped to possibly take his spot.
Monday's episode was the first Phil quit the show amid reports that an alleged feud with Holly Willoughby has boiled over. Announcing his departure, Phil 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.
"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.”
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