Phillip Schofield, unable to reveal any evidence regarding his behaviour on This Morning

 

ITV has released a review concerning Phillip Schofield’s conduct on This Morning subsequent to the disclosure of his affair with a colleague. The review discloses the challenge faced in unearthing pertinent evidence surrounding the case.

According to the report by Jan Mulch KC, ITV’s management diligently pursued the truth regarding the alleged relationship between PS (Schofield) and PX (the runner) following the initial story’s publication in The Sun newspaper in early December 2019. Despite concerted efforts, ITV remained unable to unearth the necessary evidence due to the consistent denials from the individuals involved. It wasn’t until PS’s admission in late May 2023 that the relevant evidence came to light.

Both Phillip Schofield and the colleague in question declined involvement in the investigation, citing ‘health risks’ and highlighting a decline in their mental well-being.

The report clarified: ‘I am confident that PX’s promotion to the role of production secretary on another daytime programme was unrelated to PS. Moreover, the only agreement between ITV and PX resulting in any settlement was a standard employment termination agreement dated 31st July 2021… Following the story’s emergence in 2019, ITV made concerted efforts to assist PX and continued to offer substantial support, even into May 2023, despite the cessation of his employment.

The report suggests that ITV establishes “clear guidelines” for all involved in production, including “well-known personalities.” It goes on to note, “While senior management demonstrates a strong dedication to fostering an open culture, this ethos hasn’t sufficiently reached junior staff. Many are apprehensive about speaking up, fearing it may harm their career prospects.”

Andy Cosslett, the chairman of ITV plc, responded to the report by stating, “We embrace her suggestions and have already begun implementing them. Our unwavering commitment lies in cultivating an environment where everyone is respected and feels empowered to perform at their best.”

Our commitment to those we collaborate with is that upon receiving a complaint or when serious concerns are raised, we will consistently conduct an investigation. Should we ascertain any inappropriate occurrences, we shall take decisive action. We are dedicated to further enhancing our initiatives to empower junior colleagues to voice their concerns confidently.”

“Phillip departed the programme subsequent to the revelation of his ‘ill-considered yet not unlawful’ affair, which came to light amidst reports of escalating tension with his co-star, Holly Willoughby.

His statement stated: “In an attempt to shield my former colleague, I have not been entirely truthful about our relationship. However, my recent departure from This Morning, which was unrelated, sparked speculation and raised queries that have had an impact on him. Therefore, for his well-being, it’s crucial for me to be honest now. I’m acutely aware that I’ve misled my employers at ITV, my colleagues, friends, agents, the media, and most significantly, my family. I deeply regret this and also apologise for being unfaithful to my wife.”

His co-star, Holly, also left the breakfast show in October following the arrest of a man charged with plotting to abduct and harm the TV personality. In her statement, she expressed, ‘Today, I’ve informed ITV that I won’t be returning to This Morning after 14 years. It has been an honour to be part of its journey, and I believe there are many chapters yet to unfold. Unfortunately, I feel compelled to make this decision for the sake of my family. I’ll dearly miss everyone.