BBC ANNOUNCES PHILLIP SCHOFIELD INTERVIEW SPECIAL

Amol Rajan has interviewed Phillip Schofield for BBC News. The interview will be available in full from 6am on Friday, 2nd June on BBC iPlayer.

It follows the departure of Phillip Schofield from This Morning after more than 21 years earlier this month following reports of a ‘feud’ between him and long-term co-host Holly Willoughby. Schofield presented his final show on Thursday 18 May, with his immediate departure announced on Saturday 20 May.

At the time, 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.”

Less than a week later, reports emerged of a relationship Schofield had with a ‘much younger’ male colleague on This Morning. Phillip later released a statement confirming the reports of the relationship, describing it as ‘unwise but not illegal’. He admitted lying to his friends, family, colleagues, and management. He was then dropped by his agency after his admission.

Schofield has resigned from ITV and will not present any further programmes, including the British Soap Awards and Dancing On Ice, for the broadcaster. ITV said: “We are deeply disappointed by the admissions of deceit made tonight by Phillip Schofield. The relationships we have with those we work with are based on trust…

“Phillip made assurances to us which he now acknowledges were untrue and we feel badly let down. We accept his resignation from ITV and therefore can confirm that he will not be appearing on ITV as had previously been stated.”

This Morning airs on ITV1 and ITVX.