ITV BOSSES: WE19 BACK OUR HOLLY
Channel supports trolled hosts
ITV are rallying around distraught This Morning hosts Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield amid concerns over the “relentless” trolling they have suffered.
Channel bosses pledged their full support to the duo, who were accused of skipping the queue to see the Queen lying in state on Friday.
A TV source said: “The abuse has been nothing short of disgusting.
“They have done nothing wrong and were fully entitled to media accreditation so they could inform their viewers.
“There is huge, real and serious concern over their wellbeing and ITV are fully supporting them behind the scenes in the face of such relentless trolling. The channel backs them 110%.”
Sources say that Holly and Phil have felt reassured by ITV’S stance, and dismissed rumours that Holly, 41, could even quit.
During a special episode reflecting on the days since the Queen’s death, Holly said in a voiceover: “Like hundreds of accredited broadcasters and journalists, we were given official permission to access the hall.
“It was strictly for the purpose of reporting on the event for millions of people in the UK who have not been able to visit Westminster.
“The rules were that we would be quickly escorted around the edges to a platform at the back.
“In contrast, those paying respect walked along a carpeted area beside the coffin and were given time to pause.
“None of the broadcasters and journalists there took anyone’s place in the queue and no one filed past the Queen. We of course respected those rules. However, we realise that it may have looked like something else, and therefore totally understand the reaction.
“Please know that we would never jump a queue.”
Yesterday pals said the experience had only brought Holly closer to Phil, 60. A source said: “They are very much in this together, and will get through it.”
This Morning posted on Instagram on Saturday: “We asked Phillip and Holly to be part of a film for this Tuesday’s programme. They did not jump the queue, have VIP access or file past.”
Some media and MPS were allowed into Westminster Hall during the four-day lying in state without queueing.
Good Morning Britain host Susanna Reid, 51, and David Beckham, 47, were among celebs in the public queue.