Amidst reports of a strained relationship between them, Phillip Schofield has referred to his co-star Holly Willoughby as his “rock,” highlighting the support she provides. The atmosphere between the two hosts of This Morning is rumored to have turned chilly backstage.

In a statement, Schofield admitted: “The last few weeks haven’t been easy for either of us.”

During a challenging period, Phillip Schofield expressed gratitude for Holly Willoughby’s unwavering support, describing her as “an incredible support” to him. Schofield had recently returned to This Morning after taking planned leave related to his younger brother’s sex abuse trial. Timothy Schofield was subsequently convicted of multiple sexual offences involving a child.

Additionally, Willoughby had taken time off due to illness. Reports had previously suggested a cooling of the pair’s friendship, but Schofield clarified that they remain the best of friends, highlighting Holly’s support on and off-screen.

“Holly has always been there for me, through thick and thin. And I’ve been there for her.

“The last few weeks haven’t been easy for either of us.”

He continued: “My family went through a real ordeal, and Holly’s support throughout meant the world to me – as did the support of my bosses at ITV, my editor Martin Frizell and the whole This Morning family, including our amazing viewers.

“And of course Holly has herself been ill with shingles.

“Whatever happens, we still have each other to count on.”

Schofield and Willoughby have been fixtures on This Morning for many years, with Schofield joining in 2002 and Willoughby in 2009. They also co-host the popular show Dancing On Ice on ITV.

In the past, the duo faced backlash when their visit to the Queen’s lying in state was perceived as them bypassing the lengthy queue that had formed. This incident drew criticism from many.

However, in October, after the controversy had subsided, Schofield expressed his gratitude to viewers as This Morning won the daytime award at the National Television Awards. He acknowledged the significance of the award, particularly in that particular year.