The 61-year-old confirmed on Saturday he would be leaving the ITV daytime show after days of rumours about a ‘fallout’ with Holly Willoughby, 42.
In a statement, Phil 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.’
ITV fans pointed out that there was no mention of Holly in his statement, with one writing: ‘What is very telling of Schofields statement is no mention of Holly !!! Supposed best friends ! Very strange !’
‘No mention of their friendship in each others statement,’ another remarked, while many others pointed out her absence from his exit announcement.
While Holly has never addressed the rumours of a rift, she paid tribute to Phil following his departure on Instagram.
‘Hi everyone…’, she began.
‘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’, she concluded.
Rumours of a fallout between Phil and Holly first started swirling last week, as a source claimed their friendship had been ‘dwindling.’
Viewers have been speculating over who will take over from Phil – with names such as Rylan Clark and Dermot O’Leary in the mix – while earlier reports claimed Holly was also considering throwing in the towel.
While Holly will continue to present This Morning, she will not be returning to the show on Monday.
ITV confirmed to Metro.co.uk that Holly will return to This Morning on Monday, June 5, having taken an early half-term holiday starting Monday, May 22.
Metro.co.uk has contacted Phil’s reps for comment.
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