On Sunday afternoon, Phillip Schofield released a statement confirming he’d be leaving This Morning with immediate effect.
Fronting the show for two decades, Phillip and his co-host Holly Willoughby were a powerhouse duo of daytime TV for their dynamic chemistry, strong friendship and hilarious blunders.
However, the pair have seemed to have drifted apart as the 61-year-old confessed things haven't been easy between them along with Holly removing a tribute to Phillip on her social media.
Despite the feud, they continued with their hosting duties over the past week, although many viewers picked up on an awkward and uncomfortable tension.
With Phillip announcing his departure over the weekend, it’s believed Holly gave ITV an ultimatum on whether or not she stayed.
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It’s been reported that the 42-year-old made it clear to the broadcaster that she wanted to remain on the show, although without Phillip alongside her.
A source told MailOnline: “'It was basically an ultimatum, Holly won the war.
“We say what Holly wants, Holly gets and never was a truer word spoken.”
In light of Phillip’s exit, Holly’s expected to take an early break from the show and won’t be returning until the start of June.
Although she paid tribute to her co-host on Instagram shortly after his announcement, fans were quick to notice she didn’t mention their friendship.
She wrote: “Hi everyone, it's been over 13 great years presenting This Morning with Phil.
“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."
The ITV show revealed Holly will remain on the programme and will present alongside other members of the This Morning family.
Sharing a statement on social media, they stated Phillip will continue to front present peak time shows for the broadcaster and teased he’ll be on a new series.
Touching on his departure, ITV’s Managing Director Kevin Lygo 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.”
This Morning continues weekdays on ITV from 10am
