Holly Willoughby celebrates friendship after major blow from Phillip Schofield

Holly Willoughby, 43, has emphasized the value of her close friendships, particularly with actress Tamzin Outhwaite, following her much-publicized split from former This Morning co-host Phillip Schofield. Schofield, 62, faced intense scrutiny after revealing an “unwise, but not illegal” affair with a younger colleague, leading to his departure from both the show and ITV.

Last October, Holly made headlines herself when she stepped away from This Morning following the foiling of a kidnapping plot against her by the police. Since then, she’s focused on her personal life and relationships, finding solace in her close-knit circle of friends.

While Schofield has since returned to television with Channel 5’s documentary series Cast Away, where he spends 10 days on a deserted island, Holly opted to support Tamzin Outhwaite’s theatre performance instead. Rather than watching Schofield’s show, she attended Outhwaite’s play, Abigail’s Party, in Stratford. Holly took to Instagram to praise her friend, sharing a heartfelt message: “@glamzin… you are simply incredible… if you get the chance please go and see this,” accompanied by a red heart emoji and a link to tickets.

Holly’s choice to focus on her friendships comes in stark contrast to Schofield, who recently appeared to subtly mock her during his new show. In a past This Morning episode, Holly had asked viewers, “Hello, Firstly, are you okay? I hope so. It feels very strange sitting here without Phil.” On Cast Away, Schofield echoed a similar sentiment, saying to his daughters: “If you’re ok, then we’re ok, and I’m ok… are you ok?”

Viewers have criticized Schofield for what they perceive as a lack of remorse over his affair and subsequent fallout. Despite the backlash, Schofield seems pleased with the reception of his new show. He’s been seen smiling alongside his family, with his daughter, Molly, proudly sharing a photo of them together on Instagram Stories, writing, “Could not be more proud” with loving face emojis.

As both Holly and Schofield move forward in their respective careers, Holly’s focus on her personal life and close friendships stands in stark contrast to Schofield’s return to the public eye.