Phillip Schofield has made a bold statement in his TV comeback, throwing shade at This Morning bosses by asserting, “I never quit.” The renowned presenter, aged 62, who recently made headlines for his affair scandal, will confront the controversy in a new three-part Channel 5 series named Cast Away. This show follows Schofield’s journey as he attempts to survive on an island in the Indian Ocean for 10 days, marking his first television appearance since his departure from This Morning.
The programme’s debut episode, which has been viewed by The Independent, captures a compelling exchange where a series producer questions Schofield about his resilience on the island. Schofield firmly declares, “Oh, it is inconceivable that I would quit.” Delving further into his departure from This Morning, he adds, “I’m fired, but I never quit.”
Discussing the challenges of filming Cast Away discreetly, Schofield acknowledges rumours that he might appear on the upcoming season of I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here. Despite being on good terms with the show’s hosts, Ant McPartlin and Dec Donnelly, Schofield candidly reveals, “There are some channels you just won’t work for. There are just some people you won’t work for.”
Schofield’s exit from ITV in May stirred controversy after he admitted to a relationship with a younger man while still married. The revelation prompted his immediate departure from the network. Despite criticism from viewers regarding his return to television, Schofield remains undeterred. Addressing the negative reception in the first episode of Cast Away, he acknowledges the backlash, expressing, “I think there’d be an awful lot of people [who] hope that I never come back.”
Moreover, Schofield discloses a deeply personal struggle during the programme, disclosing his battle with suicidal thoughts as his career faced intense scrutiny. Reflecting on his daughter Molly’s intervention, Schofield recounts, “That was just enough to take a step back from the edge.” The emotional episode culminates with Schofield acknowledging the impact of his daughter’s words on his decision to seek help.
Cast Away is set to air over three nights, commencing on Monday, 30th September, offering viewers a glimpse into Phillip Schofield’s journey of introspection and resilience amid personal and professional challenges.