By Lucy Caulkett–
The sudden dismissal of Phillip Schofield, (pictured) the television veteran, from presenting This Morning on ITV is likely to take its toll on his mental health.
Schofield had jointly been the face of the programme with Holly Willoughby for over two decades, only for the feud between him and Willoughby to being his career tumbling down in a flash as ITV bosses chose the pretty presenter over the 6i year old fading star.
The relationship had been subjected to a strain for a while according to sources, and it was a matter of time before he got the boot, but it came suddenly.
Willoughby had made it clear she had grown uncomfortable with sharing a platform with Schofield, forcing the hands of bosses to show whom they preferred among the two.
Holly Willoughby’s so-called feud with her long time pal Phillip Schofield reportedly began three years ago, after she severed ties with their talent agencies.
Ultimately, the powerful wheels of conflicting business interests that command big bucks managed to put a wedge between the two television stars, but complaints about the television star’s conduct from several insiders in ITV had been mounting, with many wanting Schofield gone a long time ago.
In fact, many insiders believe the 61 year old presenter lasted much longer on the show than he should have.
The Daily Mail Online has led the way of revealing the details of the fall out with Schofield. details of the three year underlying feud that has culminated to Schofield
Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary opened Monday’s episode of This Morning with a tribute to Phillip Schofield following his departure from the show.
The 61-year-old left the ITV programme following reports of a rift between himself and co-host Holly Willoughby.
Hammond described Schofield as “one of the best live television broadcasters this country has ever had”.
She added everyone on the show wished him “all the best for the future”.
It has not yet been announced who will permanently replace Schofield. Hammond and O’Leary usually present the daytime show on Fridays but stepped in on Monday.
“We can’t start today’s show without paying tribute to the man who spent the last two decades sitting on the This Morning sofa, Phillip Schofield,” Hammond said on Monday.
O’Leary continued: “So, as a show, everyone on and off screen at ITV and This Morning want to say a huge thank you to Phil for what he’s done to make this show such a success over the last 21 years.”
“Quite simply, we all know he’s one of the best live television broadcasters this country has ever had,” Hammond continued, “and we and all the team wish him all the best for the future”.
O’Leary concluded: “So, Holly is now taking a break and will be back in a couple of weeks”
How for those words of support will help alleviate the pain for Schofied is something only he can answer.
It has not been a great year for the television star.
The recent imprisonment of Schofield brother for sexual assault, causing him much embarrassment and discomfort apparently added to Willoughby’s discomfort of working with him.
Loss Of Self Worth
Television stars often have their profession closely intertwined with their identity and sense of self-worth. Losing a job can shake this foundation, leading to feelings of loss, insecurity, and diminished self-esteem. Phil Schofield, with a long-standing career in the industry, may face a significant challenge in adjusting to the sudden change and redefining his professional identity.
Calling the shots: Holly Willoughby gets what she wants
‘Reports of poor conduct may mean his sacking was both necessary and inevitable.
‘However, it can still deeply affect his mental health because of the very public nature of the sacking.
‘Job loss can trigger a range of emotional responses, including shock, anger, sadness, and anxiety. Phil Schofield, like many others, may experience a profound sense of loss and grief over the end of his television career. This emotional upheaval can lead to heightened stress levels, disrupted sleep patterns, and difficulties in coping with daily life. The loss of a familiar routine and the camaraderie of colleagues can further exacerbate these emotional challenges.
The sudden change in routine and loss of purpose can contribute to feelings of depression and anxiety. Phil Schofield may experience a sense of uncertainty about the future, which can lead to increased stress and worry. The loss of a familiar and supportive work environment may also impact his mental well-being, as he navigates feelings of isolation and a potential loss of social connections.
Coping Strategies and Support System
The now axed former television star is expected to need coping strategies and support systems are essential to navigate the mental health challenges associated with job loss.
”Phil Schofield may benefit from seeking professional support, such as therapy or counselling, to process the emotional impact of losing his job and to develop strategies for managing stress and anxiety, researcher Joshua Hopwood said :
‘The impact of job loss on the mental health of a veteran television star like Phil Schofield is likely to be significant. Loss of identity, emotional upheaval, and challenges to mental well-being are common experiences. The provision of a six-month advance pay can provide temporary financial stability, helping to ease immediate concerns
”Losing a job can have profound effects on an individual’s mental health, particularly for those who have been deeply ingrained in their profession for an extended period. But if he has brought it on himself, he only has himself to blame”
PR expert and mental health analyst Abbi Hoxleigh, said :Anybody that falls from a great height to no man’s land will be heavily impacted mentally. Going from hero to zero is going to be very difficult to cope with.
”No matter how people come across visually on television, we never know how people cope with difficult situations behind the scenes. Being a television star for decades then having a big fall from grace, will definitely affect their mental health.
Unless Schofield has a strong support network that includes people he can trust, this will absolutely break him emotionally and affect your mental health
‘With his brother’s latest conviction, whether we like it or not, he will be tarnished with the same brush by many people
”Even the fact he disowned his brother leaves him in a no win situation. Some would say he should have supported his brother, others would have roasted him if he did that.
”Reports that Schofield was mistreating people is disturbing, but he is still human and will need some compassion and protection
” His personal reputation is shattered, how does he handle this and explain himself to the world”.