Holly Willoughby return date to This Morning confirmed after Phillip Schofield’s exit | TV & Radio | Showbiz & TV
Phillip Schofield announced his shock exit on Saturday after endless reports his relationship with co-star Holly Willoughby was souring.
The duo have presented This Morning together since 2009 and were once very close friends.
However, recent headlines have suggested the two have endured a huge “feud”, a story which has trickled down to other ITV stars who have given their views.
Following Phillip’s announcement, Holly has taken an early half-term break from the show.
This week has seen Alison Hammond presenting the show with Dermot O’Leary and Craig Doyle respectively, but ITV have now confirmed when Holly will be back on screens.
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Phillip’s last show aired on Thursday when he hosted as normal alongside Holly amid ongoing speculation of a rift between the two.
The pair typically don’t host on Fridays when Alison and Dermot take over, so Thursday would end up being Phillip’s final show.
He announced a major bombshell on Saturday by confirming he’d be leaving with immediate effect.
While Holly wasn’t scheduled to take a break until next week, the shock news meant she didn’t return on Monday and has taken an additional week off.
However, This Morning regular Camilla Tominey has confirmed it won’t be long before Holly returns to her usual spot on the sofa.
The opinionated journalist explained in a column that Holly will return on Monday, June 5.
It’s not yet been announced whether someone will be officially replacing Phillip to host with Holly, but it’s assumed for now her co-stars such as Alison will likely work with her on rotation.
ITV did this when Piers Morgan sensationally left Good Morning Britain, so it’s likely This Morning will follow suit.
Phillip’s exit was sudden as he took to Instagram to announce the news to the public, penning a message about his 21-year stint on This Morning.
He wrote: “I have always been proud to cover fascinating stories on This Morning. But recently, the show 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 and I’ll see you all for the Soap Awards next month.”
This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV.
