TV presenter Phillip Schofield comes out as gay in moving statement

TV presenter Phillip Schofield has come out as gay, after 27 years of marriage to wife Stephanie Lowe.

The This Morning presenter took to his Instagram stories to come out as gay.

Revealing the news to his nearly three million followers, Phillip wrote, 'You never know what’s going on in someone’s seemingly perfect life, what issues they struggling with, or the stated of their wellbeing – and so you won’t know what has been consuming me for the last few years. With the strength and support of my wife and my daughters, I have been coming to term with the fact that I am gay.

'This is something that has caused many heart-breaking conversations at home. 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 still I can’t sleep and there have been some very dark moments'.

'My inner conflict contrasts with an outside world that has changed so very 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 comes only from the hurt that I am causing to my family.

'Steph has been incredible,' continued Phillip. '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 entire 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 and 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.

'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 come 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.

'Please be kind,' the TV host finished, 'especially to my family. Phillip'.

Phillip also appeared on today's episode of This Morning speaking to co-host Holly Willoughby about the shocking announcement.

"I’ve made this decision which is essential for me and essential for my head," he told Holly. "Of course I am very aware that Steph and girls are at home watching this".

MORE: Holly Willoughby and Phil Schofield reveal heartbreaking family loss live on This Morning

"I feel a little lighter but I'm also very very aware that this has caused pain and upset," he continued. "It’s tough but this is not something that’s happened quickly I’ve had to deal with this in my head for quite some time".

Gushing about wife Steph, Phillip added, "I can’t write in any statement what I feel about that woman she is amazing.

"She is incredible. There is no one in my life who would have supported me the way she has supported me. She’s astonishing".

From our sister site GoodtoKnow.