Phillip Schofield is set to star in a ‘brand new peak time series’ on ITV, following his departure from This Morning.
The 61-year-old presenter announced his departure from the daytime telly staple yesterday, after more than two decades.
Schofield joined the multi-award winning show back in 2002 and was joined by co-host Holly Willoughby in 2009.
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The duo have presented the show ever since. His decision to leave the show is effective immediately, meaning his last This Morning appearance was Thursday 18 May alongside Willoughby.
In a statement released yesterday, Schofield 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.”
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In a statement following the news, Willoughby thanked Schofield and said it ‘won’t feel the same without’ him.
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.”
Willoughby is now set to co-present with other members of the This Morning team.
She will return to This Morning on Monday 5th June having taken an early half-term holiday starting Monday 22nd May.
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Meanwhile, Schofield won’t be away from our screens for long either, with ITV confirming he will still front The British Soap Awards next month as well as helm a new as yet unnamed ‘peak 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.”
Featured Image Credit: PA Images / Alamy / ITVTopics: ITV, Phillip Schofield, TV and Film, This Morning, Holly Willoughby