Family Fortunes viewers squirmed on Sunday night after Phillip Schofield was one of the answers to a question on This Morning presenters.
In a dose of spectacularly awkward timing, the gameshow asked contestants to name hosts of the ITV daytime show, with Phil being the second highest scorer with 25 points, after Holly Willoughby, with 31.
The question comes just one day after the television host, 61, stepped down from the programme with ‘immediate effect’.
Viewers were quick to point out the haphazard Family Fortunes question on Twitter, with one writing: ‘Unfortunate choice of Family Fortunes category tonight.’
‘The timing of this is stunning,’ another said, while a third added: ‘Oooops. This is a badly timed question! Will they accept Phillip Schofield as an answer?’
Phil’s departure from This Morning over the weekend followed reports of a feud with his co-star Holly, with insiders claiming they no longer speak behind the scenes.
It also came after the news that his brother, Timothy Schofield, was sentenced to 12 years in jail on Friday after being convicted of child sex offences.
Phil confirmed his exit in a statement shared on his Instagram Story.
The statement began: ‘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.’
Phil is expected to continue to present ‘peak time shows’ for ITV including next month’s The British Soap Awards and a new prime time series, the broadcaster has said.
Meanwhile, Holly will remain on This Morning, although she will be away from hosting duties until June 5 due to half-term holiday leave.
It’s been confirmed Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary will host the programme on Monday following Phil’s departure. It’s not yet known who will host for the rest of the week.
Family Fortunes is available to stream on ITVX.
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