Phillip Schofield coming out as gay was 'shock' to co-star despite claims 'everyone knew'

This Morning presenter Phillip Schofield, 57, told his 2.7 million Instagram followers he is “coming to terms” with being gay, before he discussed his feelings on the show with his co-presenter Holly Willoughby, 39. Following this, the host received a mass of support from his fans and friends on social media, including Dr Ranj, who is a regular on the show.

The former Strictly Come Dancing star said Phillip’s news came as a “complete surprise” to him, despite actress Joan Collins claiming it was already known to some people in the industry. 

He said: “It was a complete surprise to me. This is the most difficult time of his life.

“It’s powerful and courageous and will help so many people. He should be so proud and now he finally gets to be happy.”

When asked how his This Morning family are feeling after hearing the news, he added to OK! Magazine: “Everyone has rallied round him, and sent messages of love and support.

READ MORE: Holly Willoughby speaks out as Phillip Schofield announces he’s gay

“No one in my life would have supported me the way in the way she’s supported me, it is literally astonishing.”

Discussing his family’s reaction, he added: “They are so amazing and their love and support.

“I sat them down and I told them and they jumped up and they gave me a hug, a big hug, a long hug, and then they hugged Steph and they said, ‘It’s ok, it’s ok. This is fine. We’ll be ok. We’ll always be a family’.”

The Dancing on Ice presenter added he is not in a rush to meet anyone new.

source: express.co.uk