Phillip Schofield to exit This Morning after 20 years as host

Willoughby will continue on the programme, co-presenting "with members of the This Morning family".

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."

Willoughby said: "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."

Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Managing Director, Media and Entertainment 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."

Schofield and Willoughby were both absent from This Morning earlier this year, with Schofield taking a three week absence after his brother Timothy Schofield stood trial at Exeter Crown Court. Timothy was found guilty of 11 sexual offences involving a child between October 2016 to October 2019.

Following his brother's conviction, Schofield said: "As far as I am concerned, I no longer have a brother. My overwhelming concern is and has always been for the wellbeing of the victim and his family. These are despicable crimes, and I welcome the guilty verdicts."

Meanwhile, Willoughby was away across the Easter holidays but extended her leave due to recovering from shingles. She will return to This Morning from 5th June.

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Schofield released a statement in May to admit that "the last few weeks haven't been easy" for him and Willoughby.

He also said in the statement that Willoughby is his "rock", adding: "We're the best of friends – as always, she is an incredible support on screen, behind the scenes and on the phone."

It is currently unknown whether Schofield will continue to co-present Dancing on Ice with Willoughby.

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