Phillip Schofield has broken his almost two-year internet silence to back England in the 2026 World Cup. The former This Morning presenter, 64, posted a close-up selfie on Instagram showing transfer tattoos of the England flag and a cheek tattoo reading “It’s coming home,” which he described as “Bloody s***e transfer,” adding a face-plant emoji and a laughing face. The post marks his first since November 2024, when he shared a photo of a Newquay sunset after scattering his parents’ ashes.
Background of Schofield’s Retreat
Schofield retreated from the limelight in mid-2023 after admitting to lying about an affair with a young male ITV co-worker. He insisted the relationship was “consensual” and “not illegal,” though it began when the colleague was in his 20s and Schofield was in his mid-50s. The scandal led to him being dropped by his talent agency of 35 years and as a Prince’s Trust ambassador. He subsequently left his London property for his £840,000 home in Cornwall, where he lives a quieter life.
World Cup Support and Public Reaction
His backing for Thomas Tuchel’s squad comes ahead of England’s match against Norway in Miami. Other celebrities, including David Beckham and cast members from Loose Women and Coronation Street, also sent well-wishes online. Schofield’s Instagram still boasts 2.5 million followers, though comments are limited.
Last Screen Appearance and Family Support
Schofield’s last screen appearance was in September 2024 on Channel 5’s Cast Away, a three-episode series filmed entirely by himself while stranded on an island for 10 days. He spoke candidly about being axed by ITV and declared he was “done” with TV, stating, “this is me having my say as I bow out.” During the series, his daughter Molly revealed she was “so proud” of him, noting they had seen him at his lowest. Schofield also has a daughter Ruby. He has remained close with his family, including ex-wife Stephanie Lowe, after experiencing “dark” thoughts and getting “so close” to taking his own life. In November 2024, Schofield announced his mother Pat’s death, saying he would “forever be proud and privileged she was my mum.”
