Phillip Schofield gets messages of support from celebs

LGBT equality charity Stonewall has hailed Phillip Schofield’s announcement as “incredibly brave and moving” as celebrities send messages of support to the TV presenter.

In a statement on Twitter, the charity said: “It takes a lot of courage and is always a hugely personal decision to be open about who you are. Congrats Phillip.”

Several celebrities shared messages of support:

Holly Willoughby

Holly Willoughby, his co-presenter on This Morning posted on Instagram that she has “never been more proud of my friend than I am today”.

He announced the news on the social media site moments before an emotional appearance on the ITV daytime show.

Schofield said his decision had been inspired by the “brave” guests who have appeared on the show and thought: “I have to be that person.”

Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford

After hugging Schofield on This Morning, Holmes said: “Nobody should be embarrassed about their sexuality and it’s fantastic you have spoken out and there will be so many people who have been strengthened by what you’ve said.”

He added that he and wife Ruth would be “the first to stand by you”.

Ant and Dec

ITV stars Ant and Dec tweeted: “Huge respect and admiration for our friend @Schofe Sending love to you P, and to your 3 lovely girls.”

David Walliams

Others offered their support with actor and comedian David Walliams tweeting: “I am sending all my love to Phillip Schofield today.

“I have always held him in the highest regard, and now have nothing but respect and admiration for him.

“Let’s hope we are moving towards a world where no-one has to come out anymore, they can just be who they are and celebrate that.”

Matt Lucas

Walliams’ Little Britain co-star Matt Lucas tweeted: “I’m not surprised about Phillip Schofield. Growing up I remember him presenting with Gordon the Gopher from inside that closet!

“Joking aside, that cannot have been an easy statement to make. People come out at different stages in their lives. Good luck Phillip. Xxxx”

Dermot O’Leary

Fellow TV host Dermot O’Leary also sent his support to Schofield on Twitter, writing: “Sending big love to the Schofield and his family, @Schofe Stand up guy, heart of a lion. X”

Gok Wan

Fashion guru Gok Wan added: “So much love to you @Schofe such bravery xxxxx.”

John Barrowman

Writing on Instagram, actor John Barrowman said: “So proud of you and your family Phillip. Welcome to your truth and authentic self. The nation loves you for who you because you are @schofe

“Can’t wait to hug you and don’t worry we got your back we are #LGBTQ+strong…”

Matt Evers

Dancing on Ice skater Matt Evers, who was married to a woman before coming out as gay, tweeted: “Thank you @Schofe for your bravery and honesty. Being your friend and colleague for the past 15 years I’m sending you and your family all the love and support. #loveislove”

Richard Osman

Pointless presenter Richard Osman tweeted: “When you create a new entertainment show and start discussing who should host, the first name on the list is always Phil Schofield. That’s a fact.

“He’s just the very best at what he does, and the public adore him. Looking forward to many more years of his charm and brilliance.”

Nigella Lawson

The TV chef tweeted a message of support for the presenter, saying he had “so much love and respect” for Schofield.

Davina McCall

The former Big Brother presenter tweeted: “So much love to @Schofe and his family.”

(c) Sky News 2020: Phillip Schofield gets messages of support from celebs