Phillip Schofield, born on April 1, 1962, in Oldham, Lancashire, is a renowned English television presenter with a career spanning over three decades. At the age of 62, Schofield has become one of Britain’s most recognizable faces, thanks to his long-standing role on ITV’s This Morning. He has an estimated net worth of $12 million and an annual salary of £700,000 ($865,000) before stepping down in 2023. Schofield shares two daughters with his former wife, Stephanie Lowe, to whom he was married from 1993 to 2021.
Early Beginnings
Schofield’s passion for broadcasting started at the age of 15 when he began working as a hospital radio DJ. This experience ignited a career in television, and in 1982, at the age of 20, Schofield moved to New Zealand to host the music show Shazam!. This role helped him gain his first substantial exposure as a television presenter. He quickly built a reputation for his charm and professionalism, setting the foundation for a career that would make him a beloved figure in British media.
BBC Breakthrough
In 1985, Schofield returned to the UK and became the first in-vision continuity presenter for Children’s BBC, which solidified his place in the world of television. His ability to connect with young audiences was a key asset. He was later selected to present Going Live!, a popular Saturday morning show for children that he hosted from 1987 to 1993. His wit, rapport with children, and ability to handle live television made him a household name across the country.
Going Live! Success
Going Live! proved to be one of Schofield’s most important roles, providing him the national spotlight and solidifying his career as a versatile and talented presenter. He handled an array of segments, from lighthearted interviews with celebrities to fun activities for children. During his time on the show, Schofield also ventured into other projects, including presenting Schofield’s TV Gold and the National Lottery’s Winning Lines.
Theatre and Primetime
Alongside his television career, Schofield has taken the stage. In the early 1990s, he starred as Joseph in the West End production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. His portrayal of the lead role earned critical acclaim and further demonstrated his versatility as an entertainer. He later shifted his focus back to television, taking on prominent roles in primetime shows like Dancing on Ice and The Cube.
Dancing on Ice
Schofield’s work on Dancing on Ice, co-hosting alongside Holly Willoughby, further cemented his status as one of the most dependable presenters on British television. The show was immensely popular, and Schofield’s chemistry with Willoughby helped to make it a primetime hit. The duo became a fixture on British screens, working together on various projects.
Transition to Daytime
In 2002, Schofield made a major move to daytime television by joining ITV’s This Morning as a co-host. Initially, he worked alongside Fern Britton, and after her departure, Holly Willoughby took over as his co-presenter. His role on This Morning became his defining work, as he brought his characteristic warmth, professionalism, and empathy to the show. Schofield helped the program win numerous awards, including the National Television Award for Most Popular Daytime Programme.
Personal Announcement
In 2020, Schofield made headlines for a very personal reason. In an emotional segment on This Morning, Schofield came out as gay, ending years of speculation about his personal life. His announcement was met with widespread support and praise for his courage. Schofield had been married to Stephanie Lowe for nearly three decades, and the couple has two daughters. Though they separated following his announcement, they continue to share a strong bond as co-parents.
Stepping Down
In 2023, after over two decades on This Morning, Schofield stepped down from his role. His departure marked the end of an era on the popular morning show, where he had built a strong connection with viewers across the UK. The reasons for his departure remain largely private, but Schofield continues to remain a respected figure in the industry.
Salary and Net Worth
During his final years on This Morning, Schofield earned an impressive salary of £700,000, translating to roughly $865,000 annually. This lucrative deal reflected his importance to the show and his value as one of ITV’s biggest stars. With his multiple roles on television and various ventures, Schofield’s net worth is estimated at $12 million, further proving the financial success of his long and varied career.
Charitable Work
Outside of television, Schofield has used his platform to support various charitable causes. He is a patron of The Children’s Trust, a charity dedicated to helping children with brain injuries. Additionally, Schofield has actively participated in Text Santa, ITV’s annual Christmas charity event. His philanthropic work has earned him admiration from fans and peers alike.
Legacy and Influence
Phillip Schofield’s career has left an indelible mark on British television. From his early days as a children’s presenter to his highly successful run on This Morning, he has become a trusted and beloved figure. His ability to navigate both light entertainment and sensitive topics with ease speaks to his remarkable talent and dedication to his craft.
Schofield’s legacy is not only defined by his professional achievements but also by his courage in sharing his personal journey with the public. His openness has inspired many, and his contributions to television have solidified his place as one of Britain’s greatest broadcasters.