ITV responds to claims Phillip Schofield was sacked from This Morning
ITV has responded to claims Phillip Schofield was "sacked" from This Morning.
Last week, Phillip announced that he was stepping down from presenting the daytime talk show with immediate effect, amid rumours that he had fallen out with co-host Holly Willoughby.
"I have always done my best to be honourable and kind," he said in a statement at the time. "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."
Related: Lorraine Kelly addresses Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield future amid feud rumours
Following the announcement, Phillip's former colleague Eamonn Holmes spoke about his departure on GB News, speculating that Phillip was fired by ITV.
However, this has now been disputed by ITV, who said in a statement of their own (via The Standard): "Phillip Schofield’s decision to step down from This Morning was (as his statement made clear) a decision agreed between Phillip and ITV."
Despite Phillip's departure, Holly will continue to host the show with some help from This Morning regulars, such as Dermot O'Leary and Alison Hammond.
Related: British Soap Awards 2023 confirms airdate as Phillip Schofield returns to screens
Alison and Dermot took over hosting duties on Monday (May 22) following Phillip's abrupt exit, while Holly is taking a break for half-term.
The pair paid tribute to Phillip, who hosted the show for 21 years, calling him "one of the best live television broadcasters this country has ever had".
Phillip will return to screens on June 6 to host the 2023 British Soap Awards, which will see Emmerdale, EastEnders, Coronation Street, Hollyoaks and Doctors battle it out for the title of Best British Soap, among a number of other categories.
This Morning airs on weekdays from 10am on ITV1.
You Might Also Like