Eamonn Holmes brands Phillip Schofield ‘delusional’ over latest statement
Eamonn Holmes has branded Phillip Schofield “delusional” and a “liar” after his former colleague released a statement denying claims This Morning had a “toxic” culture.
Holmes, who shared presenting duties on the flagship daytime show for 15 years, has been one of the most vocal critics of the broadcaster’s handling of the Schofield fallout.
Schofield, 61, resigned from ITV last week and was dropped by his talent agency after confessing to having an “unwise, but not illegal” relationship with a younger male colleague who worked on the programme.
Earlier this morning Schofield uploaded a statement on his Instagram story, where he responded to claims by Dr Ranj, the former This Morning resident medic, who said the show had a “toxic” culture.
Schofield said:
However, Holmes called Schofield’s response “a delusional statement”.
He tweeted:
Schofield has just put out a delusional statement. Like Holly he puts it on Insta Stories so if it goes wrong there is no record after 24 hrs. I'm reluctant to give the liar any more publicity but believe me Pip if u r looking for a fight , u have picked on the wrong person !
— Eamonn Holmes OBE (@EamonnHolmes) May 29, 2023
It comes after Dr Ranj revealed on Sunday night he had raised “concerns about [programme editor] Martin Frizell’s behaviour (and the environment at TM) with Emma Gormley”, the managing director, daytime, of ITV Studio.
He said that after raising complaints, he “found myself being used less and less”, adding: “I even took my concerns directly to the top of ITV: the culture at This Morning has become toxic, no longer aligned with ITV values, and I felt like because I whistle-blew I was managed out.”
In response to Dr Ranj’s comments, an ITV spokesman said: “At ITV we are fully committed to providing every opportunity for anyone who works with us to raise any concern or comments they may have."
They confirmed that after a complaint was made by Dr Ranj, an "external and independent adviser" was appointed to carry out a review.
“This external review found no evidence of bullying or discrimination,” they said.