Vanessa Feltz Warns Phillip Schofield’s TV Comeback Could Be a ‘Risk’ But Offers Her Support

Vanessa Feltz has spoken out about her former This Morning colleague and close friend, Phillip Schofield, as he prepares for a significant return to television.

Schofield, who stepped away from the spotlight 16 months ago after quitting the ITV show and admitting to an “unwise but not illegal” affair, is set to re-enter the public eye with a new project.

At 62, Schofield has announced his intention to “tell my side of the story” and “say whatever I want about whatever I want” as he faces ten days of isolation on the reality TV show Cast Away.

Schofield described the experience, “My story of survival, both on a desert island and off it,” while reflecting on his past, acknowledging that his actions were unwise but questioning if they warranted the intense scrutiny he has faced.

Vanessa, also 62, acknowledged the potential risks of Schofield’s return to reality TV but supported him. Speaking to Metro.co.uk, she said, “I just think whatever he does to make him feel better, I wish him all the luck in the world.” While she hasn’t seen the show, she expressed hope that the experience will be positive for Schofield, personally and professionally.

She added that any reality TV show comes with inherent risks but noted that Schofield’s extensive experience in television could work in his favour. “But he is a very seasoned TV professional,” she said, “and I hope that it’s the right thing for him, and it does him the power of good, that he enjoys it and that the viewers enjoy it.”

Vanessa revealed that she was unaware of Schofield’s return to television until the news broke, despite rumours linking him to other shows like Celebrity Big Brother and I’m A Celebrity.

However, she has not contacted him directly since learning of his return, explaining that she prefers to avoid the appearance of jumping on the bandwagon.

Reflecting on her own experiences, Vanessa shared, “When there’s a story about me in the media, suddenly everybody that I haven’t heard from for ages jumps in and says something…

I always think, ‘Oh, god, come on, be a bit more subtle than that.’” She emphasised that Schofield is well aware of her support and that their friendship remains strong.

Vanessa, who joined the This Morning team in 1992, also commented on the significant changes the show has undergone since Schofield’s departure, including Holly Willoughby’s exit and the introduction of Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard as new hosts.

She expressed her sadness at losing long-term colleagues, likening it to any workplace where friends move on.

Despite the changes, Vanessa praised the new hosts, describing Ben as a long-time friend and Cat as someone she has known even longer. She emphasised her love for the show and her ongoing excitement about being part of it, saying, “It’s such a great show, it’s so interesting… I would be devastated if anything happened to that show.”

Vanessa concluded by expressing confidence in the new hosts, stating, “I’m glad that it’s in the capable hands of Ben and Cat, and I think it’s great.”