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Veteran broadcaster Chris Tarrant has delivered a scathing assessment of former This Morning presenter Phillip Schofield, claiming his fame “went to his head” and led to a decline in the quality of his work. In a candid interview, Tarrant didn't pull any punches, suggesting Schofield “lost the plot” and criticizing his later television appearances.

Tarrant, known for his long-running success hosting Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, made the comments while discussing the recent controversy surrounding Schofield’s departure from ITV and subsequent admission of having an affair with a younger male colleague. While acknowledging the seriousness of the personal scandal, Tarrant’s remarks focused primarily on what he perceived as a shift in Schofield’s professional demeanour over time.

“Those shows he did were mainly cr**,” Tarrant stated bluntly, referring to Schofield’s later television projects. He elaborated, suggesting that Schofield’s initial charm and relatability were gradually replaced by an air of arrogance and detachment. “When you’re on telly for that long, and you’re getting loads of praise, it can go to your head. It just does.”

The comments come at a sensitive time for ITV, which has been grappling with the fallout from Schofield’s abrupt departure and the subsequent revelations about his affair. The network has faced criticism for its handling of the situation and for allegedly failing to address concerns about Schofield’s behaviour prior to the scandal.

Schofield, who presented This Morning alongside Holly Willoughby for over a decade, initially resigned from ITV citing a “difficult period” in his personal life. He subsequently admitted to having an affair with a production assistant, an admission that shocked the nation and led to his permanent dismissal from the network.

Tarrant’s remarks highlight a broader discussion about the impact of fame and the pressures faced by television personalities. While acknowledging the challenges of maintaining humility and perspective in the spotlight, Tarrant’s comments have nonetheless sparked debate about Schofield’s legacy and the factors that may have contributed to his downfall. Many are questioning whether the intense pressure and constant visibility of a high-profile television career can ultimately take a toll, even on seemingly unflappable individuals.

The incident serves as a cautionary tale for the television industry and a reminder of the importance of maintaining integrity and professionalism, even in the face of overwhelming success. It also raises questions about the responsibility of broadcasters to support their talent and to address concerns about behaviour before they escalate into major crises.