20 May 2023 , 18:48
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Phillip Schofield appeared to suggest he wasn't confident he would appear on This Morning again in what we now know was his last show.
The presenter appeared on screens for the last time on Thursday, May 18, following days of speculation surrounding his future.
Phillip, 61, had reportedly had a huge falling out with his former co-star and ex-best friend, Holly Willoughby, 42, and bosses were said to be prepared to axe him should viewers notice a shift.
In recent days, fans have expressed the tension between both Phillip and Holly after they failed to mention their feud on the air.
Earlier today (Saturday) Phillip announced his departure with immediate effect.
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Following his exit, leading body language expert Judi James has reflected on his last appearance on the sofa.
Phillip Schofield appeared to hint at his exit on This Morning (ITV)Speaking to the Mirror, Judi said: "There were very few clues on Thursday’s show to suggest this shocking departure.
"The couple's body language signals of awkwardness had diminished as the week went on and by Thursday the the signs between Holly and Phil were suggesting the drama might just blow over.
"Phil was using several appeasement gestures like active listening signals and several references to the off-set friendship between them, while Holly was relaxing and apparently using tie-signs like an elbow nudge and laughing about jokes shared off-set to suggest their friendship was still on track."
Phillip didn't wave when Holly said she would be back soon (ITV)However, she went on to add: "Then at the end of Thursday’s show there came a huge hint.
"Holly's wave came with a message that she would see us next week, while Phil said nothing.
"Overall the signals suggested that Phil was fighting to re-create their on-screen chemistry all week while Holly looked less convinced.
"Phil was the epitome of professionalism right to the end, suggesting he might have been pushed into this decision rather than taking it himself."
Phillip fronted the show alongside Holly for 13 years (Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)Following days of speculation surrounding his future on the programme, Phillip issued a statement shared via ITV, saying: "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.
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"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."
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