Holly Willoughby was nowhere to be seen as This Morning returned to screens. The ITV daytime show was back on Monday (May 22) for the first time since it was announced that Phillip had sensationally quit This Morning after 20 years.
The presenter said in a statement that the programme had 'become the story' and that he wanted to "do what I can to protect the show that I love" after rumours were rife that he and Holly, 42, were 'barely speaking' behind the scenes amid a 'rift' between the pair.
But amid the claims, Phillip, 61, hailed Holly as his "rock" in an unusual statement to The Sun before his exit. He added: "We’re the best of friends – as always, she is an incredible support on screen, behind the scenes and on the phone. Holly has always been there for me, through thick and thin. And I’ve been there for her. The last few weeks haven’t been easy for either of us."
READ MORE: Join the FREE Manchester Evening News WhatsApp community
However, Phillip has now claimed that "This Morning itself has become the story" and to "protect the show he loves" he has decided to 'step back'.
In a statement issued on Saturday (May 20), the veteran TV star added: "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.”
ITV was quick to confirm that Holly will still host the show with other "members of the This Morning family." But they also confirmed to the Manchester Evening News that viewers will have to wait to see her back on screen.
Holly isn't on screens on Monday (May 22) as she takes her usual half-term break early. She would have been due to wrap up her stint on the programme on Thursday (May 25) before taking a week off. However, she'll now take two weeks off and return in June.
Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary have filled in instead. The pair, who usually host the show on a Friday and during the various holidays throughout the year, are both hot contenders to take over Phillip's role given their experience on the show. Alison, 48, is currently bookmaker Ladbrokes favourite – giving her 2/1 odds.
The beloved presenter first rose to fame as a Big Brother contestant in 2002 before joining This Morning in the same year. Dermot, 49, who has appeared on the show as a presenter throughout the years, currently has been given 4/1 odds by Ladbrokes.
READ NEXT:
- Gorka Marquez's sweet 'winner' remark about Helen Skelton as he finally addresses missing out on Strictly Glitterball
- Coronation Street's Ryan Prescott gives his verdict on Ryan and Daisy romance as Justin's trial nears
- Helen Flanagan admits she's 'overwhelmed' before night out with daughter after addressing co-parenting with Scott Sinclair
- Coronation Street's Jack P Shepherd leaves fans emotional with special behind the scenes tribute to soap icons
- Fans ask 'where can I get one' as Gemma Atkinson shares 'threatening' reason for co-star's leaving gift
