After keeping her counsel for weeks as speculation mounted of a rift between her and co-host Phillip Schofield, Holly Willoughby has finally addressed it on social media.
Kind of.
But it was in a move that’s likely to twist the knife into her some-time friend. The This Morning presenter’s Instagram message was short. And repetitive.
The Story was released moments after news of Phil’s exit was announced. It was essentially a copy of the statement she had provided to ITV. This had been included in the network’s Schofield announcement on Saturday (May 20).
That read: “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.”
Phillip Schofield quits This Morning
Holly’s statement came after Phillip Schofield quit This Morning with immediate effect. He hosted his final episode on Thursday (May 18).
In a statement released by ITV he 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.”
Holly Willoughby takes This Morning break
Holly Willoughby will remain on This Morning and will co-present with members of the This Morning ‘family’. These of course include Alison Hammond, Dermot O’Leary, Josie Gibson and Rochelle Humes.
Read more: Holly Willoughby ‘told ITV she wanted Phillip Schofield out’
Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Managing Director, Media and Entertainment also made comment. He 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.”
However, it was also revealed Holly will now not appear on This Morning until Monday June 5. She was scheduled to take half term off, hosting her last episode on Thursday May 25. But the show has confirmed Holly will be ‘taking an early half term’. This means she will now not return as planned on Monday May 22.
This Morning has not confirmed who will replace Holly and Phil this week.
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