ALISON Hammond and Dermot O’Leary paid a gushing tribute to Phillip Schofield after his shock exit from the show.
The presenters were drafted in to host after Phil, 61, announced at the weekend he was “stepping down” with immediate effect.
Alison and Dermot started the show with a tribute to Phil
Images of Phil flashed up as Alison and Dermot heaped praise on him
Alison, 48, started Monday’s This Morning with the nod to Phil and branded him “one of the best live TV broadcasters” the country has ever had.
She said: “We can’t start the show without paying tribute to the man who spent the last two decades sitting on the This Morning sofa.
“Quite simply, we all know he’s one of the best live television broadcasters this country has ever had and we and all the team wish him all the best.”
Dermot added: “As a show, everyone on and off screen want to say a huge thank you to Phil for what he’s done to make the show a success over the last 21 years.”
They also addressed Holly Willoughby’s extended break from the show and told viewers she’ll be back in two weeks.
Phillip shared a statement over the weekend confirming he would not be returning to the show after the fall-out from his feud with former best mate Holly.
He 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.”
