TV presenter Phillip Schofield has left This Morning after greater than 20 years.

The 61-year-old joined the ITV morning present in 2002. He offered his final present on Thursday.

In a press release, Schofield stated he was stepping again as a result of the programme "has become the story" and "I want to do what I can to protect the show I love".

It comes after stories that his relationship with long-term co-presenter Holly Willoughby had come beneath pressure.

He not too long ago returned to This Morning after taking pre-planned depart round his brother's sex abuse trial final month and The Sun reported the absence had contributed to a "cooling" of their friendship.

The statement stated: "I have always been proud to cover fascinating stories on This Morning.

"But not too long ago, This Morning itself has grow to be the story.

"Throughout my career in TV - including the very difficult last days - I have always done my best to be honourable and kind.

"I perceive that ITV has determined the present state of affairs cannot go on, and I wish to do what I can to guard the present that I like."

This comes after feud rumours between him and Willoughby - who has additionally put out a press release relating to Schofield stepping down.

On an Instagram story, she stated: "Hi everyone... It's been over 13 great years presenting This Morning with Phil and I want to take this opportunity to thank him for all of his knowledge, his experience and his humour.

"This couch will not really feel the identical with out him."

Read extra:Read Schofield's statement in full - and Holly's responseA timeline of the stars' relationship and rumours of a riftSchofield praises Willoughby after friendship strain rumours

The two have been open about their close friendship over the years, including sharing pictures on social media of them while on joint holidays with their families.

Last week, Schofield addressed the feud rumours and stated Willoughby was his rock, he added: "As I have said before, Holly is my rock. We're the best of friends - as always, she is an incredible support on screen, behind the scenes and on the phone."

Kevin Lygo, ITV's managing director of media and leisure, stated: "Phillip is hands down one of the best broadcasters of his generation and we thank him for his two decades worth of absolutely terrific television on the This Morning sofa.

"This Morning is made by among the finest and most diligent groups in tv, who produce over 12 hours of dwell tv every week.

"We look forward to continuing our relationship with Phillip starting with The British Soap Awards in June and a brand new peak time series to come."

Willoughby is about to return to This Morning on 5 June.

The present has been on the air for over 34 years and beforehand acquired a particular recognition BAFTA in 2018 for its thirtieth anniversary.

Schofield and Willoughby first offered the present collectively in 2009.