Loyal Holly is a dream telly wife
AND the Oscar goes to... Holly Willoughby. For sheer fortitude, steadfastness and loyalty.
Everyone is saying how courageous Phillip Schofield is for coming out as gay, in a rush, at 10am on Friday.
But I think we saw real love on the This Morning this week, as Holly’s public display of loyalty, love and compassion was moving.
There have been lots of silly stories about Holly and Phil falling out – but they clearly empathise and deep-down love each other.
I know what it’s like to have that sort of close relationship with a fellow sofa presenter.
Me and Nick Owen hosted breakfast TV together for years and were probably closer than many married couples.
We loved each other and valued our relationship too much to prejudice what was a fantastic working marriage that worked so well on air.
But I knew what lightened his mood (Luton Town winning) or drove him to deep depression (Luton Town losing). And on so many days when my name was splattered all over the front pages with some crazy made-up story that reduced me to tears, he comforted me with a hug at 3am and a marmalade croissant.
The scrutiny in the 80s and 90s was bad enough. But nowadays it’s even worse with the intense pressure from social media. I nearly crumbled back then and I honestly don’t think I could cope in today’s world where you are pressured to have an online profile then have to cope – alone, frightened and unprotected – with what ensues.
Even in the 21st Century, if you come out as gay after decades in the TV business, that reaction can be hysterical.
Yes, Phillip has shown courage but it must be so much worse for his wife. Whether she’s known for years or not, she certainly has to deal with it now.
I don’t care a fig if Phillip is gay and neither should you. Frankly, I am appalled everyone is making such a big thing about it, as if it matters. Like it’s our business.
Sorry, Phil, that you had to come out at all. No one should “have to”.
Love to your family, who will no doubt face some hounding. And respect to Holly, who did you proud.