Mixed Reactions As TV Host Phillip Schofield Comes Out Of The Closet After 27-Year Marriage To A Woman

February 10, 2020 10:06

Phillip Schofield has ignited different types of reactions after he shared the news about his sexuality. What are people saying? And why do some of them praise him while others criticize him?

A bond with his co-host

Phillip Schofield tied the knot with Stephanie Lowe in 1993. But the partner that many people relate to him most often is his TV co-host, Holly Willoughby.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Phillip Schofield (@schofe) on Jan 28, 2020 at 3:23pm PST

These two have a very strong on-set chemistry. In fact, Phillip once referred to her as the "sister" he never had amid rumors that the two didn't get along.

Having ups and downs in their friendship is expected considering that, according to The Mirror, Phillip and Holly have been working together for several years. They first collaborated on Dancing On Ice in 2006 and a few years later, they both became the faces of the popular TV show This Morning.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Phillip Schofield (@schofe) on Jan 30, 2018 at 5:37am PST

A major announcement

Considering the strong friendship Phillip shares with Holly, it makes sense that he would mention her when making one of the biggest announcements of his career.

A statement from Phillip pic.twitter.com/iIE7NcLZ2I
— This Morning (@thismorning) February 7, 2020

On February 7, Phillip Schofield put out a statement announcing his homosexuality. In the powerful post, he stated that he had had some "heart-breaking conversations" at home due to this inner conflict.

Phillip appreciated his wife for being the "kindest soul" and Holly for being "so kind and wise."

Reactions

The hosts of Loose Women took a moment to send their love to the TV host shortly after his announcement.

In addition, this big revelation sparked some mixed reactions online. A lot of people praised his courage and expressed their support.

Heard the news @thismorning sending all the love to @Schofe the girls and Steph. And well done to all at this morning for a beautiful interview. No matter who you are or at what point in life everyone deserves to be their true self. Xx
— Rylan Clark-Neal (@Rylan) February 7, 2020

Living a lie or not as your authentic self can be so all-consuming and toxic. Because of his position, his announcement will likely prompt many others to question themselves and to open that door too. Huge love and respect to him and his family. ❤️
— David Ames (@semadivad) February 7, 2020

I have to say that I had no idea Phillip was dealing with this matter and pleased he has. It must be mental torture to keep pretending to be something he’s not. Glad he has his wonderful family and friends, there’s no shame involved.
— mrs susan braddy (@zoobrad) February 7, 2020

Even in 2020, we must not underestimate the bravery this statement took. Wishing Phillip and his whole family all the kindness today and onwards.
— Dr. Jennifer Cassidy (@OxfordDiplomat) February 7, 2020

I've never cried watching tv, but that hit me. Proud, supportive and love. Take every single day a step at a time
— Curtis (@CurtisPiper7) February 7, 2020

However, there were those who thought this was unfair to his wife of nearly three decades and they criticized Phillip for allowing things to play out this way.

Yes he did was aware he was Gay when he married his choice ,27 years later all of a sudden feels it’s time to reveal his sexuality
— Jacqueline Carson (@Caoimhe33Jackie) February 10, 2020

Well bloody said! I can’t imagine the pain. God I’ve been married 22 years and if my husband came home and said that! By the way I’m a mum of 2 gay sons! I’d like to think I’d bought them up to be more bloody honest
— Summer ❤️🌈 #RESISTER (@summeruk1708) February 10, 2020

Exactly, well said. @Schofe hid behind his wife's skirt for over 20 years; that's a coward not a hero. My sympathy goes to his wife + children, not him. I'm gay + I came out to my family in my 20s, as most people would.
— David 🏳️‍🌈🇬🇧 (@cordeiro876) February 10, 2020

I don’t care if someone is straight or gay it’s just the fact he’s made a fool of his wife. If he left her for a young lady he certainly wouldn’t be getting a standing ovation and quite rightly so.
— Mother of Chihuahuas (@lynsxxxxxxxxxx) February 9, 2020

Phillip Schofield's family

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Phillip Schofield (@schofe) on Jan 22, 2019 at 10:03am PST

Here are some interesting facts about his married life and family.

Phillip and Stephanie met when they were both working at the BBC.
They celebrated their 25th anniversary in 2018.
They have two kids together. Their older daughter, Molly is 27, while the younger one, Ruby, is 24.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Phillip Schofield (@schofe) on Jan 1, 2018 at 3:10am PST

An announcement like this is sure to inspire so many reactions from a lot of people. His fans all over the world now get to see a different side of Phillip Schofield. Whether or not you agree with how he handled the whole thing, you have to admit that it takes a lot of bravery to face the world this way. He foresaw that not everyone would be on his side but he told his truth anyway. And in the end, as long as he's happy, that's all that matters.