Phillip Schofield has made the decision to quit hosting ITV's This Morning following weeks of uncertainty.
The long-standing presenter made the dramatic announcement following an alleged 'feud' with co-host Holly Willoughby. Sources claimed earlier this month that the pair were 'separate entities' and their friendship outside of the show had 'cooled'.
On Saturday afternoon, Phillip announced that he is stepping back from the show to his followers on social media, reports the Mirror. The 61-year-old said in a statement that while he has always been proud to present This Morning, the show itself has recently become the story instead of the content.
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In the statement, Phil insists he and Holly remain great friends but it had been a 'tough few weeks' with his brother's court case and Holly's battle with shingles.
The former host 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."
Sources confirmed to The Mirror that both Holly and ITV felt that it had only made things worse by issuing such a statement.
One said: "This Morning's relationship with its viewers is built on trust, and they have to believe that Holly and Phil's friendship, and what they're watching, is real. While there was a bit of noise and speculation about their relationship cooling, it could have easily been ignored. But by putting this statement out there, he has turned what was a manageable situation into a feeding frenzy.
"If viewers now no longer believe in the pair, and make their views clear next week, make no mistake, ITV will act. Phil's position is looking increasingly precarious. Monday is very much D-day, but the same could apply to any day next week."
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