Holly Willoughby breaks silence as Phillip Schofield quits This Morning

HOLLY Willoughby has broken her silence after co-star Phillip Schofield sensationally quit ITV’s This Morning.

TV presenter Holly, 42, admitted the sofa “would not be the same” as Phil steps down after more than 13 years.

Rising tensions between Phillip, 61, and Holly have led to the former releasing a shock statement this afternoon.

The presenting pair saw their once-close relationship crumble in recent weeks.

The Sun revealed earlier this week that Phillip faced the axe from This Morning amid a “seismic” summer shake-up.

But now, the TV star has taken to his social media to confirm that he will be stepping down from the role after a “difficult” few days.

Following Phil’s announcement, Holly shared an emotional statement this afternoon.

She penned: “Hi everyone, 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,” followed by a love heart.

TV host Phillip announced the shock decision to leave the morning show in a lengthy statement on social media.

Phillip wrote: “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.”

It has now been revealed how ITV plan to fill Phillip’s shoes for the time being.

The broadcaster released a statement explaining that members of the This Morning family will be helping out.

This is likely to include Alison Hammond, Dermot O’Leary, Josie Gibson, Craig Doyle, Rochelle Humes and Vernon Kay.

Other stars who have hosted the show include Carol Vorderman, Andi Peters and Rylan Clark.

According to bookies, Dermot O’Leary is the favourite to become a full time host.