Dancing On Ice judge Ashley Banjo sparked an emotional reaction from fans when he paid a touching tribute to co-host Phillip Schofield who came out as gay earlier this week, reports The Mirror.
Phillip's co-host and good friend Holly Willoughby conducted a candid interview with the 57 year-old after he posted on Instagram on Friday that he is gay.
Speaking on behalf of the Dancing On Ice judges' bench, Ashley spoke warmly to Phillip, touching the hearts of viewers.
The Diversity dancer said: "Phil, it's been a big week, you've always been a legend but never more so than than this week."
"It's not about me, it's not about me," a bashful Phillip insisted.
Instantly fans took to Twitter to back what Ashley said.
One wrote: "That was a lovely thing Ashley did to Phillip #DancingOnIce."
Another posted: "@AshleyBanjo @dancingonice @Schofe well said Ashley! We all think you are a legend Phillip no matter what."
A third said: "Aw bless Ashley, you could tell how much that meant to Phillip, he was tearing up #DancingOnIce."
Another viewer added: "Ashley Banjo stopping the show to share his love and respect for Phillip Schofield was a lovely thing to do. #DancingOnIce."
Phillip Schofield paid tribute to his "incredible" family as he came out as gay live on This Morning.
In a statement posted on February 7, the ITV host said "being gay is a reason to celebrate and be proud" but said he was pained by the hurt he has caused his family.
He appeared on the breakfast show to discuss the statement, which Holly Willoughby read out.
Before the show, Holly posted a heartfelt message of support for her colleague.
