Phillip Schofield is returning to mainstream TV after signing up for a new show – 16-months after his acrimonious departure from daytime show This Morning.
The presenter has secretly filmed Channel 5 special Cast Away, which required him to give up his home comforts for 10 days of soul-searching on a tropical island in the Indian Ocean.
Schofield, 62, will discuss his bitter parting of ways with ITV and This Morning, which he hosted for 21 years, while fending for himself on the island paradise, located off the coast of Madagascar.
Viewers will see the axed presenter reflect on the emotional impact of his exile from mainstream TV after news of his affair with a 20-year old runner on This Morning came to light.
It’s understood that Schofield was given a handheld camera, body cameras and a sound pack before being left to record his emotional week-and-a-half long journey.
WHAT WAS SAID
A source told The Sun: ‘Over the past few months Phil has had quite a few offers for various things – but has steadfastly turned them all down.
‘This sort of challenge has always appealed to him though and after consulting with friends and family, he decided to go for it. It’s all been top secret, and has been an incredibly quick turnaround in order to keep the news quiet.
‘After 42 years on telly, Phillip has learnt from some great crews and teams on how to film and tell a story.’
REASON FOR HIS RETURN TO TV
The source added: ‘With 10 days to himself, no camera crews or production around, he shot some unbelievably raw footage – some of it makes for tough, emotional viewing.
‘But he wanted a chance to share his story, unedited and honest, and let viewers see another side to him.
‘Whilst this is a massive coup for Channel 5, and huge for Phillip, he’s in no rush to come back to TV full-time yet; he remains very bruised, and is just taking some time now to weigh things up before he makes any major decisions.’
