Phillip Schofield has sought solace in the Westcountry after leaving This Morning. The television presenter confirmed his exit from the ITV show on Friday (May 19) after 19 years.
His departure came following an alleged feud with co-host Holly Willoughby. The relationship between the pair had reportedly come under strain leading to intense speculation about Phillip's future.
As reported by Cornwall Live, the 61-year-old was spotted on a coastal walk in the county on Friday. He travelled from London to spend time with his mum Pat.
READ MORE: This Morning: Josie Gibson names pig after Holly Willoughby
It was the same day that Phillip announced his departure from ITV This Morning. He thanked everyone for their support over the years.
Phillip said in a statement: “I’ve 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 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.”
Holly said in a statement: “It’s been over 13 great years presenting This Morning with Phil and I want to take this opportunity to thank him for all of his knowledge, his experience and his humour. The sofa won’t feel the same without him.”
It has been reported the mum of three will take a break from the show and return after half-term on Monday, June 5. Emergency presenters will be drafted in next week.
TV managing director Kevin Lygo said on Friday: “Phillip is hands-down one of the best broadcasters of his generation and we thank him for his two decades worth of absolutely terrific television on the This Morning sofa.
“This Morning is made by one of the best and most diligent teams in television, who produce over 12 hours of live television each week. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Phillip starting with The British Soap Awards in June and a brand new peak-time series to come.”
The TV duo had presented This Morning together since 2009 and also co-host ITV’s Dancing On Ice. ITV will make further announcements on the ice-skating competition’s presenting line-up in due course ahead of its return to screens in January 2024, the PA news agency understands
Also this week, Phillip's paedophile brother was jailed for 12 years for child sex offences. Timothy Schofield, 54, a civilian police worker from Bath, was convicted of 11 sexual offences involving a child, including two of sexual activity with a child.
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