"I am feeling pain and confusion, but that comes only from the hurt that I am causing my family."

'This Morning' presenter Phillip Schofield has come out as gay.

Phillip shared a lengthy emotional statement coming out on his Instagram stories. The statement has been shared by 'This Morning', which recently took home the prize for Best Live Magazine Show at the National Television Awards.

The presenter talked about having the support of his wife, Stephanie Lowe, and two daughters, Ruby and Molly, in the statement.

He wrote: "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."

The statement continues: "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 my family."

 

Schofield praised his wife as "incredible" and the "kindest soul I have ever met". He said his daughters "have been astonishing in their love, hugs and encouraging words of comfort". He also said his"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 team."

He concluded: "Every day on This Morning, I sit in awe of those we meet who have been brace 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, being honest, can I hope to find peace in my mind and a way forward. Please be kind, especially to my family. Phillip."

 

Since releasing the statement, Phillip has spoken to Holly about coming out on 'This Morning'.