Dancing on Ice star Ian ‘H’ Watkins and judge John Barrowman has praised Phillip Schofield for his ‘honesty’ and welcomed him to the ‘rainbow family’ after the This Morning presenter announced he was gay.
Phillip took to Instagram to make the brave decision to share the news with his followers on Friday morning.
Fans, friends and fellow celebrities have all flocked to social media to share their messages of support for the 57-year-old, including H from Steps.
Posting to his Instagram, he shared a photo of himself with Phillip, Holly Willoughby, and his skating partner Matt Evers as he said: ‘Bravo Phillip for your honesty.
‘Coming out is difficult but your family, friends, and fans will be proud of you being your authentic self. I’m proud of your bravery… Welcome officially to our beautiful rainbow family! We and our ally’s will keep you safe.’
While John Barrowman exclaimed: ‘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 welcome to the family❤️❤️??JB.’
Other celebs that have sent their support are Gok Wan who wrote: ‘So much love to you @Schofe such bravery xxxxx.’
His co-host Holly also posted a picture of the This Morning anchors together and praised her friend for his bravery.
‘Never been more proud of my friend than I am today,’ she posted.
Holly and Phillip made a surprise appearance on Friday’s This Morning, which was hosted by Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford, where Holly read out an emotional statement from her pal.
As the 57-year-old bravely opened up about it he admitted that as much as he feels relieved, he knows how much he has hurt his wife of 27 years Steph and his two daughters, Molly and Ruby.
‘It’s funny because everyone I have spoken to, you have all been so supportive,’ he exclaimed.
‘Every person I tell it gets a little lighter, it is essential for me and my head, and of course, I am very aware that Steph and the girls are at home watching this.
‘There is no question that this has caused pain and upset.’
The presenter who also co-hosts Dancing on Ice with Holly initially shared the news with his followers on Instagram.
In a heartfelt post, he said: ‘You never know what’s going on in someone’s seemingly perfect life, what issues they are struggling with, or the state of their wellbeing – and so you won’t know what has been consuming me for the last few years. With the strength and support of my wife and my daughters, I have been coming to terms with the fact that I am gay.
‘This is something that has caused many heartbreaking conversations at home. I have been married to Steph for nearly 27 years, and we have two beautiful grown-up daughters, Molly and Ruby. My family has held me so close: they have tried to cheer me up, to smother me with kindness and love, despite their own confusion. Yet I still can’t sleep and there have been some very dark moments.’
He continued: ‘My inner conflict contrasts with an outside world that has changed so very much for the better. Today, quite rightly, being gay is a reason to celebrate and be proud. Yes, I am feeling pain and confusion, but that only comes from the hurt I am causing for my family.
‘Steph has been incredible – I love her so very much. She is the kindest soul that I have ever met. My girls have been astonishing in their love, hugs and encouraging and words of comfort. Both mine and Steph’s entire families have stunned me with their love, instant acceptance, and support. Of course, they are worried about Steph, but I know they will scoop us both up.’
Phil then praised This Morning and Holly, saying: ‘My friends are the best, especially Holly, who has been so kind and wise – and who has hugged me as I sobbed on her shoulder. At ITV, I couldn’t hope to work with more wonderful, supportive teams.’
This Morning airs weekdays at 10am on ITV.
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