Holly Willoughby announces break from This Morning as Phillip quits

2023-05-21

Following Phillip Schofield's announcement that he has left his position as co-host of This Morning earlier today, ITV has announced that Holly Willoughby will be taking an early break from the show.

The duo reportedly planned on taking a half-term break at the end of the month, however, Holly will be taking her leave from the show from Monday next week.

Taking time off is usual practice on This Morning, with Holly and Phil often off our screens during the school holidays and replaced by other resident presenters on the show.

ITV said: “Holly Willoughby will return to This Morning on Monday 5th June having taken an early half-term holiday starting Monday 22nd May.”

ITV will announce who will host the show next week in due course.

Holly Willoughbyhas released a short statement to her social media followingPhillip Schofield'sannouncement that he is leaving This Morningwith immediate effect.

Addressing her followers, the co-host penned: "Hi Everyone… 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 announced he was leaving the showtoday, Saturday 20 May, after featuring on This Morning for more than 20 years.

In a statement, Phillip 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.”

Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Managing Director, weighed in on Phil's departure, as 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.”

Holly and Phil have presented This Morning together for fourteen years – after Holly joined in 2009, following the departure of Phil's former co-host, Fern Britton.

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