One of Phillip Schofield's This Morning colleagues said they are "gutted" to see him leave the ITV show.
On Saturday Phil announced he would be stepping down from the programme, after more than 20 years on air. It follows a torrid week for the star, with speculation about his feud with Holly Willoughby reaching fever pitch.
Phil's co-star Matthew Wright said he was "gutted" that he would be leaving as he tweeted: "Gutted for @Schofe - there for me when I was having problems a few years back x"
READ MORE: Amanda Holden shares cryptic post as Phillip Schofield quits This Morning
Matthew's tweet was liked thousands of times, with people congratulating him for backing Phil, 61.
Earlier today Phil said in a statement: "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.”
Holly, 42, will remain on screen and will co-present with other members of the "This Morning" family for the meantime.
She issued a short statement following Phil's departure, she said: "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."
Other celebrities have reacted to news of Phil's departure, with Amanda Holden seemingly taking a swipe with a cheeky instagram post.
Despite leaving This Morning Phil will continue to present peak time shows for ITV including next month’s The British Soap Awards and a new prime time series.
Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Managing Director, Media and Entertainment said: “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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