Phillip Schofield has come out as gay in a personal Instagram statement.
The This Morning presenter wrote: “You never know what’s going on in someone’s seemingly perfect life, what issues they are struggling with, or the state of their wellbeing – and so you won’t know what has been consuming me for the last few years.
“With the strength and support of my wife and daughters, I have been coming to terms with the fact I am gay.”
He explained: “This is something that has caused many heartbreaking conversations at home. I have been married to Steph for nearly 27 years, and we have two beautiful grown-up daughters, Molly and Ruby. My family have held me so close: they have tried to cheer me up, to smother me with kindness and love, despite their own confusion.
“Yet I still can’t sleep and there have been some very dark moments.”
“My inner conflict contrasts with an outside world that has changed so very much for the better,” Phillip continued.
“Today, quite rightly, being gay is a reason to celebrate and be proud. Yes, I am feeling pain and confusion, but that comes only from the hurt that I am causing to my family.”
Describing his wife as “incredible” and the “kindest soul he has ever met”, Phillip also praised his “astonishing” daughters, adding: “Both mine and Steph’s entire families have stunned me with their love, instant acceptance and support. Of course, they are worried about Steph, but I know they will scoop us both up.
“My friends are the best, especially Holly [Willoughby, his This Morning co-host], who has been so kind and wise – and who has hugged me as I sobbed on her shoulder.
“At ITV, I couldn’t hope to work with more wonderful, supportive teams.”
He ended the post with a request for people to “please be kind, especially to [his] family”.
Minutes after his statement was published, Phillip sat down with his usual This Morning co-host Holly Willoughby to discuss his coming out live on air.
Both stars were moved to tears during the interview, in which Phillip insisted that he came out entirely of his own accord, and answered questions about a potential future romance.
Since then, a number of Phillip’s famous friends and peers have also shown him their support on social media, including Dermot O’Leary, Susanna Reid and Victoria Derbyshire.
Useful websites and helplines:
- London Lesbian & Gay switchboard (LLGS) is a free confidential support & information helpline for LGBT communities throughout the UK | 0300 330 0630
- Manchester Lesbian and Gay Switchboard is a free support, information and referral service for the Manchester and North-West area | 0161 235 8000
- Stonewall for more information on other LGBT services and helplines | 08000 502020
