Why is Phillip Schofield leaving This Morning and when is his last day?

PHILLIP SCHOFIELD has announced he is stepping down from his role on This Morning after a well-publicised ‘feud’ with his co-presenter, Holly Willoughby.

Fans are now wondering when Holly Willoughby‘s co-host will be leaving the ITV show for good after days of speculation about the future of This Morning.

When will Phillip Schofield leave This Morning?

In a statement released on Instagram, Phillip said his departure from This Morning would take place “with immediate effect.”

As a result, fans will be sad to hear his last episode has already aired.

Phillip’s last appearance on the long-running ITV morning show was Thursday, May 18, 2023.

Phillip joined This Morning as a presenter in 2002, taking over from John Leslie.

He initially co-hosted with Fern Britton, before she was replaced by Holly in 2009.

Why did Phillip Schofield quit This Morning?

In his statement, Phillip said he had decided to leave This Morning after the show itself “became the story,” following reports of a feud between the star and his fellow presenter, Holly.

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 what has supported me – especially This Morning’s amazing viewers – and I’ll see you all for the Soap Awards next month.”

Holly was not mentioned in Phillip’s parting message, but she later released her own statement on Instagram, stating the sofa “won’t feel the same without him.”

The announcement of Phil’s exit came after speculation reported in The Sun that he and Holly were “barely speaking” off camera on the set of their show.

Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Managing Director of Media and Entertainment, also released a statement following the shock announcement.

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. 

“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.”

Who will replace Phillip Schofield on This Morning?

ITV have confirmed that Holly will continue to host This Morning, and “will co-present with members of the This Morning family.”

The specific names are yet to be confirmed but stars such as Alison Hammond, Rochelle Humes and Dermot O’Leary have stepped in to front the show in the past.