We shouldn’t need to put out news on who we love
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 allies will keep you safe xx £lgbtq £lgbt.”
Hollyoaks star Kieron Richardson, 34, recalled the time he talked to Schofield and Willoughby about his own sexuality on This Morning in 2010.
He posted: “Phillip and Holly were the first people I told on @thismorning 10 years ago ... letting me be brave and honest and confronting my truth.
“It was the best thing I did and have nothing but love and respect for him today ALL hail scofe !!!!! ”
Fellow TV host Dermot O’Leary, 46, also sent his support to Schofield on Twitter, writing: “Sending big love to the Schofield and his family, @Schofe
Holly and Schofield
IAN ‘H’ WATKINS STEPS & DANCING ON ICE STAR
Hugs from Holly yesterday
Phillip on TV yesterday
Your family will be proud of you for being authentic
In an ideal world, it wouldn’t matter if people are gay and those who are shouldn’t need to come out with grand statements.
We should love and let love and judge people by their character – not based on who they sleep with.
But despite progress on LGBT+ rights, we don’t live in an ideal world.
Even today, one in six Britons believe homosexuality is “always” or “mostly” wrong.
Family rejection and gay-bashing violence still happen, and internalised homophobia means that some LGBTs are plagued by shame.
Having prominent public figures such as Phillip Schofield come out helps young people who are struggling with their sexuality and gender identity feel better about themselves, which reduces the incidence of anxiety, depression and self-harm. Up-front, supportive education in schools on LGBT+ issues is also key to making it easier for future generations to come out.
That is why the protests against LGBT+ lessons are so wrong.
The more public personalities who come out, the sooner coming out will be a non-issue.
That will be real progress – when no one cares who loves who.