Phillip Schofield ‘hires lawyer’ after news of ‘rift’ with Holly Willoughby

Phillip Schofield, 61, is said to have hired a lawyer ahead of his expected return to This Morning today.

The ITV presenter reportedly “felt he needed someone in his corner” following reports of a fallout between himself and co-presenter Holly Willoughby, 42.

It comes after Phillip released a lengthy statement referring to Holly as his “rock”, while Holly has stayed silent on the matter.

In the latest turn of events, the Sun reports that Phillip is looking to take legal advice.

A source told the publication: “Phil has instructed a lawyer to help keep his reputation intact.

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The news comes after previous reports of Phillip being “blindsided” after his apparent tensions with Holly were made public.

Holly was reportedly also taken aback by her co-star’s heartfelt statement in response, as sources told the same publication how Phillip had become “desperate” to repair their relationship.

A source also claimed that the pair had resolved not to let their supposed rift escalate, explaining: “Holly and Phil are professionals and they can turn it on like no one else.

“Although behind the scenes their relationship is nothing like it was, they are both dedicated to This Morning and keeping it together for viewers.”

The source also claimed ITV is “aware of the issues” and doing what it can “to keep things running smoothly”.

Express.co.uk has contacted Phil’s representative and ITV for comment.

Holly and Phil are scheduled to appear on This Morning together until late July, after which point they will take a six-week summer break.

Meanwhile, Express.co.uk can report that the pair will be returning to host the show later today, following previous concerns that they may not appear on screen together.

ITV confirmed on Sunday: “Holly and Phillip will be back on the sofa tomorrow.”