This Morning presenter Holly Willoughby has responded after co-host Philip Schofield confirmed his departure from the ITV show.
Both began hosting the daily talk show back in 2009, but rumours have circulated in recent weeks on their crumbling friendship. In response, ITV and Schofield confirmed on Saturday that he would step down with "immediate effect".
As reported by the Mirror, Holly wrote on Instagram: "Hi everyone...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."
Phillip Schofield has released a statement confirming his departure, thanking This Morning viewers for support over the years. In an ITV statement, 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.
“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 had claimed earlier this month that the pair were "separate entities" and their friendship outside of their presenting partnership had "cooled". Earlier this week, Phillip issued a statement, admitting that things had become "strained" between he and Holly, but insisted they were still great friends.
Both presenters have recently faced their own struggles, with Phil's brother's court case and Holly's battle with shingles.
Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Managing Director, Media and Entertainment added: “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.”
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