Lorraine Kelly defiantly supports Phillip Schofield as she heaps praise on star

11 February 2024 , 12:47

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Lorraine Kelly heaped praise on Phillip Schofield (Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

Phillip Schofield lost his closest colleagues after his TV career went up in flames, but one ITV presenter who remains at his side is Lorraine Kelly.

The former TV presenter fell from grace after his "unwise but not illegal" affair was exposed to the press last year. In recent months, the 61-year-old - who dramatically quit his role on This Morning after fronting the daytime show for more than 20 years - has been keeping a low profile.

After news of his affair made headlines, Phillip apologised for "lying to his colleagues and friends, his agents, and to the media". It was reported at the time that Schofield had quit his position following rumours of a rift with co-presenter Holly Willoughby. Back in November, it was revealed that the 43-year-old and long-time friend of the star had sensationally unfollowed him on Instagram and deleted pictures of Phillip from her page.

However, Phillip hasn't been shunned by some of his former TV pals. In early August, Phillip was spotted enjoying an evening out with pal Vanessa Feltz at West London restaurant, Little Bird. The pair were seen hugging affectionately, with Phil shooting his friend a smile.

Lorraine Kelly and Phillip Schofield worked alongside each other on This Morning

But Vanessa hasn't been the one person to support her friend through his difficult time. Lorraine has said that she too has been in regular contact with Phillip following his downfall. In an interview with The Sunday Times, she said: "I think everybody lost their minds a wee bit."

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The TV host once covered slots on This Morning and presented alongside Phillip and revealed that he had been a "delight" to work with. The Scottish presenter, 64, also shared that it had been a shame that Schofield had left the industry the way that he did.

Reflecting on the dramatic events which took place in the last 12 months, she added: "I was heartbroken when all that happened. It’s just a shame for the amazing career that he’s had, for it to end like that." Asked if she is still in touch with Philip and how he's been doing since the scandal erupted, Kelly said they were in contact and added: "He’s doing all right and he will be all right, but it’s hard."

It comes as Holly Willoughby celebrated her 43rd birthday in style. The Dancing on Ice host was flooded with messages from famous pals including Abbey Clancy, Emma Bunton, and comedian Michael McIntyre.

Funnyman Keith Lemon also shared a sweet throwback picture on her special day. The snap showed the TV host, better known as Keith Lemon, posing next to Holly and Fearne Cotton while in a studio. The trio worked alongside each other for years on the popular panel show Celebrity Juice.

Ayaan Ali