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Phillip Schofield’s Post-‘This Morning’ Period: Lorraine Kelly Reflects on ‘Cancel Culture’ and TV Star’s Journey
The aftermath of Phillip Schofield’s departure from ITV’s “This Morning” has proven to be a difficult chapter, according to insights from his former colleague, Lorraine Kelly. Veteran broadcaster Lorraine Kelly, aged 64, has voiced her disappointment regarding the exit of Schofield, 62, from the popular daytime program almost two years prior, triggered by his acknowledgement of an affair with a younger production staff member, described as “unwise but not illegal”. This controversy sparked discussions around cancel culture within the media industry.
Low Profile and Desert Island Project
Following the scandal, Phillip Schofield maintained a discreet presence for approximately a year after admitting his career was “over” and expressing intentions to retreat from public attention. He subsequently marked a notable return with a new venture on Channel 5, titled “Cast Away,” which documented his experience of surviving alone on a desert island for a ten-day period.
Announcing his role, TV presenter Phillip Schofield shared on Instagram: “Now you know how I spent my Summer! Alone for 10 days, no food, no water, no crew. My story of survival, both on a desert island and off it.” He notably disabled comments on the post, limiting public reaction to his television comeback.
Despite this silence, a long-time acquaintance has offered their perspective on Schofield’s attempted resurgence, suggesting, “He’s doing all right and he will be all right.”
Lorraine Kelly’s Sentiments on Schofield’s Situation and ‘Cancel Culture’
Lorraine Kelly acknowledged the hardship Phillip Schofield has experienced. She shared her perspective on the phenomenon of “cancel culture,” describing it as “very sad and quite depressing,” and observed that some individuals within the entertainment sphere appear to derive satisfaction from witnessing the misfortune of others.
In a frank interview with the Sunday Times Magazine the previous year, Kelly conveyed her sadness regarding the circumstances surrounding Schofield’s departure: “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.”
She lauded Schofield’s “generous” nature, a quality she considers uncommon amongst men in show business, and speculated that “everybody lost their minds a wee bit” during the height of the controversy. Since his departure from “This Morning” in May 2022, Schofield has largely avoided public engagements, with a rare sighting in August during a dinner outing with friend Venessa Feltz.
Schofield’s Mental Health Struggles and Television Return
After his public confession, Phillip Schofield confided in The Sun about his anxieties regarding leaving his home and the “catastrophic effect” the ordeal had exerted on his mental health. In a BBC interview, where he was visibly vaping, he revealed the extent of his daughters’ concern for his well-being, stating they “wouldn’t let him out of their sight.”
Following a seven-month absence, the TV presenter engineered an unexpected return to broadcasting. Channel 5 entrusted him with a new program in the past year, which involved him being marooned on a remote Madagascan island for a contemplative 10-day period.
“Cast Away” Project Details and Reception
Described as an authentic and intense trial of both physical and mental resilience, Phillip Schofield’s desert island experience left him isolated with only minimal camera equipment to document his journey. A Channel 5 representative clarified that this solitary island setting offered Schofield an opportunity to confront the demands of complete isolation and the natural elements, while also providing a platform for him to explore his own controversial narrative.
The “Cast Away” series garnered mixed critical responses, and Phillip Schofield has maintained a low profile in the media since its airing.