This Morning viewers have been inspired to come out as gay by courageous Phillip Schofield.
The presenter bravely came out as gay today in an Instagram statement before joining co-host Holly Willoughby on the sofa during an emotional interview.
Phillip, who has been married to wife Stephanie Lowe for nearly 27 years and shares daughters Molly and Ruby with her, confessed he was proud of himself for coming out but was "conscious of the hurt" he may cause.
Following Phillip's tear-jerking chat, co-hosts Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford hosted a phone-in where viewers called in to give their support.
Some emotional viewers praised Phillip for giving them the strength to come out as gay themselves while speaking to agony aunt Deidre Sanders.
Lynn said: "I'm so proud of Phil for the courage he has shown and for the whole This Morning team for the way they have handled this.
"Directly to you Phillip, you're the same kind, compassionate person you were, you're just stronger.
"Don't listen to the haters. Listen to the people who matter. They are behind you 100%."
Callers 'Kerry' and 'Reece', who wanted to hide their identities, thanked Phillip for encouraging them to come out.
Agony aunt Deidre explained coming out to yourself was the "initial battle" and praised Phillip for inspiring others.
She said: "I'd be so happy if Phillip's example today has helped you come out. He’s set a great example."
This Morning viewers flocked to Twitter to praise Phillip and send their love and support.
One fan said: "Just when the Nation couldn’t love you any more than they already do! You’ve more than earned your place on this planet @Schofe ... So very brave. Peace, Freedom & Happiness is yours, lovely man.
"Incredible strength shown by @Schofe today. Clearly supported by his family through something that must be extremely challenging. Congratulations to Phillip for being able to finally be himself," added another.
"Sending all my love and respect to @Schofe and his family!! Lots of love to you all... 100% behind you Phil," said a third.
Before the emotional live interview, the This Morning host opened up about his sexuality in a statement he posted to Instagram .
"You never know what’s going on in someone’s seemingly perfect life, what issues they are struggling with, or the state 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 terms 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 – 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 all 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, especially to my family."
*This Morning airs weekdays on ITV at 10am
