This Morning’s Alison Hammond has shown her support for Phillip Schofield as rumours swirl that the embattled presenter might make a comeback to his previous hosting role.
The beleaguered TV host stepped down from his position last year after a shocking revelation, confessing to an “unwise, but not illegal” relationship with a younger colleague. After a year-long hiatus from social media, the 62-year-old ex-Dancing on Ice presenter resumed activity on his account last month, delighting fans with images of his beloved dog Alfie.
He posted another charming photo of his pet in his lounge, quipping: “Not sure where rug ends and Alfie begins!” His post quickly attracted comments from amused fans, with one asking: “Where’s Wally?” It appears that Phillip has also regained the confidence of his former This Morning colleague Alison, 49, who showed her approval by liking his post.
These developments occur amidst reports that This Morning is experiencing dwindling ratings, as audiences tune out after the departure of popular hosts Phillip and Holly Willoughby. In March, it was revealed that Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley would take over, but insiders suggested the pair have “failed to connect with audiences”.
Viewership has plummeted in recent months, prompting “crisis talks” among executives and leading to job cuts within the network, reports the Mirror.
Viewing figures initially soared, but recent stats reveal a slump, with May’s peak viewership plunging to 589,000 and an average of 486,000, according to The Sun.
This Morning representatives countered these figures, asserting to The Mirror: “Ben and Cat have recorded the best audience reach of the year so far on This Morning with 4.5 million viewers across one week.”
Yet, insiders suggest Phillip’s return could be the show’s saving grace. PR guru Ed told the aforementioned publication: “Schofield has always proven himself to be popular. He’s now proven himself to be flexible and disciplined.”
“Attributes that will be absolutely crucial for the likes of ITV in the years ahead, and attributes that ITV showed a total lack of in the way that they handled the initial scandal. To put it simply: ITV needs Schofield a whole lot more than Schofield needs ITV.”