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For over ten years, Phillip Schofield dazzled as one of daytime television’s most beloved figures.
Alongside Holly Willoughby, the duo became the darlings of ITV’s *This Morning*, clinching numerous National Television awards and enjoying an almost untouchable status in the world of mid-morning TV programming.
However, the past eight months have seen Schofield’s world turn upside down.
Following a wave of criticism for allegedly bypassing the queue to view the Queen’s coffin and admitting to an affair with a significantly younger colleague at *This Morning*, Schofield has stepped away from the show and ITV entirely, marking the end of a once-celebrated partnership that began on *Dancing on Ice* and leaving his career in shambles.
The whispers about Schofield’s personal life first surfaced in late 2019, courtesy of Dan Wootton, a columnist known for his acerbic pen.
Wootton, who has since become known for his anti-woke commentary on GB News, hinted at an affair involving Schofield in a piece for *The Sun*, suggesting a staff member had moved from *This Morning* to *Loose Women* despite being close to Schofield.
Amidst these tumultuous times, Schofield came out as gay on live TV, with his co-host Willoughby by his side and Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford showing their support.
However, Holmes later expressed feelings of betrayal, stating they were all duped by Schofield’s fabrications.
The revelation of Schofield’s actions prompted calls for transparency from ITV executives, with Holmes and Wootton demanding answers regarding the network’s awareness and handling of the situation.
Despite an investigation in early 2020, ITV found no substantial evidence of the alleged relationship beyond rumors.
In a heartfelt apology, Schofield acknowledged his deceit towards ITV, his colleagues, and most importantly, his family, expressing deep remorse for his actions.
Schofield’s influence on *This Morning* was significant, having been instrumental in bringing Willoughby onboard.
However, his tenure was marred by controversies, including a reported fallout with Amanda Holden and rumors of a strained relationship with Willoughby following the backlash over “queue-gate.”
The scandal reached a new peak with the sentencing of Schofield’s brother for s-*ual abuse, a situation reportedly kept from Willoughby, fueling speculation about the co-hosts’ future on the show.
Ultimately, Schofield’s departure was confirmed in May, followed by his exit from ITV and the cessation of his representation by talent agency YMU.
With Schofield’s seat now empty, *This Morning* saw Dermot O’Leary and Alison Hammond step in, with Hammond tipped as a potential permanent replacement.
The future of *This Morning* remains uncertain amidst changing viewer habits and the introduction of ITV’s streaming service, ITVX.
As the show navigates these challenging waters, its place in ITV’s strategic vision is yet to be determined, signaling a pivotal moment in the program’s storied history.
