**Former Presenter Phillip Schofield: "Came Very Close To Ending It" After Secret Affair Finished Career
Phillip Schofield, the former host of the popular British TV show *This Morning*, has revealed the emotional toll that his career downfall had on him after his secret affair with a younger male colleague was exposed. In an emotional interview, Schofield admitted that he "came very close to ending it" as the scandal led to the abrupt end of his decades-long television career.
The once highly regarded presenter, who had been a fixture on British television for over 20 years, found himself at the center of a media storm earlier in 2023 when news of the affair emerged. Schofield admitted to having had a relationship with a younger man who worked behind the scenes at *This Morning*. He had kept the affair hidden for years, despite the intense public scrutiny of his life following his coming out as gay in 2020.
The revelation of the affair had devastating consequences for Schofield's career. He resigned from his role on *This Morning* and was dropped by his talent agency, YMU. Schofield also admitted that he had lied to his family, colleagues, and friends about the affair, deepening the personal and professional crisis that followed.
In his candid interview, Schofield opened up about the overwhelming guilt and shame he felt in the aftermath of the scandal. "I lost everything. What hurt most was the impact on others," he said, describing the effect the revelation had on his mental health. He spoke of feeling like he had “nothing left to live for” and struggled with suicidal thoughts. Schofield disclosed that he had reached out to mental health professionals and credited therapy for helping him through the darkest period of his life.
Public backlash against Schofield was intense, with critics accusing him of abusing his power and betraying the trust of his audience. However, Schofield insists that the relationship was consensual and has denied any wrongdoing beyond the secrecy of the affair. He apologized for the pain caused to his family, including his wife of over 30 years, and to his colleague.
The media attention surrounding Schofield's fall from grace has raised questions about the pressure placed on public figures and the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals in the media. Schofield, who had been widely praised for his decision to come out as gay on live television in 2020, has since expressed concern about how the narrative surrounding his personal life has been handled in the press.
Despite his attempts to apologize and make amends, Schofield's career in mainstream television appears to be over, with no immediate plans for a return to the public eye. However, in reflecting on his experience, Schofield expressed hope for the future, sharing that he has found some peace through therapy and the support of close friends and family.
