This Morning's Dermot O'Leary sends apology as he's called out moments after 35-second Phillip Schofield tribute

Dermot O'Leary issued a quiet apology after he was called out for his mini mistakes just a mere couple of minutes into the first episode of This Morning without Phillip Schofield. The presenter and his co-host Alison Hammond were drafted in on Monday (May 22) after news of Phillip's exit broke over the weekend.

The veteran TV presenter sensationally quit This Morning after 20 years. Phillip said in a statement that the programme had 'become the story' and that he wanted to "do what I can to protect the show that I love" after rumours were rife that he and Holly Willoughby were 'barely speaking' behind the scenes amid a 'rift' between the pair.

The 61-year-old also said: "I have always been proud to cover fascinating stories on This Morning. But recently, This Morning itself has become the story. Throughout my career in TV – including the very difficult last few days – I have always done my best to be honourable and kind. I understand that ITV has decided the current situation can’t go on, and I want to do what I can to protect the show that I love.

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"So I have agreed to step down from This Morning with immediate effect, in the hope that the show can move forward to a bright future." He added: "I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me – especially This Morning’s amazing viewers – and I’ll see you all for the Soap Awards next month."

Alison and Dermot were drafted in to host This Monring on Monday (may 22) following Phillip's exit and Holly's decision to take an extra week off work ahead of her pre-planned half-term break next week. The 42-year-old will therefore return to the helm of the show on June 5.

But opening the first show of the week