Ant and Dec send message of support after Phillip Schofield comes out as gay

Presenter made the revelation in an emotional Instagram post

Ant and Dec have sent a message of support to Phillip Schofield after the This Morning presenter came out as gay.

The I'm a Celebrity and Britain's Got Talent hosts said they were thinking of Schofield as well as his three daughters.

“Huge respect and admiration for our friend @Schofe. Sending love to you P, and to your 3 lovely girls," they wrote.

Schofield, who has been married to Stephanie Lowe for 27 years, came out in a statement on his Instagram, which read: “With the strength and support of my wife and my daughters, I have been coming to the terms with the fact that I am gay.

“This is something that has caused many heart-breaking conversations at home."

He added: “I have been married to Steph for nearly 27 years, and we have two beautiful grown-up daughters, Molly and Ruby. My family have 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.

“My inner conflict contrasts with an outside world that has changed so 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 that I am causing to my family.

“Steph has been incredible – I love her so very much. She is the kindest soul I have ever met. My girls have been astonishing in their love, hugs and encouraging words of comfort. Both mine and Steph’s 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. My friends are the best, especially Holly, who has been so kind as 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.”

He added: “Every day on This Morning, I sit in awe of those we meet who have been brave and open in confronting their truth – so now it’s my turn to share mine. This will probably all come as as something of a surprise and I understand, but only by facing this, by being honest, can I hope to find peace in my mind and a way forward.”

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Holly Willoughby, Richard Osman, Dermot O’Leary and Victoria Derbyshire are among the other celebrities to have voiced their support for Schofield.