People are NOT Happy About this Comeback

Phillip Schofield was spotted looking surprisingly upbeat as he strolled through a London park on Wednesday, just hours after news broke of his upcoming TV comeback. The disgraced former This Morning host, 62, appeared unfazed despite being branded a “narcissist” by social media users following the announcement of his return to the small screen.

Schofield is set to star in Cast Away, a new Channel 5 survival show, marking his first TV appearance since his scandalous affair with a younger colleague came to light, which led to the end of his decades-long career. In the show, Schofield will endure 10 days of complete isolation on a remote island in the Indian Ocean, documenting his experience in what’s being billed as “an intense physical and mental challenge.”

In a preview clip, the ex-presenter was seen tearfully reflecting on his downfall, saying, “I know what I did was unwise, but is it enough to completely destroy someone?” The dramatic moment has already sparked controversy, with critics accusing Schofield of seeking sympathy from viewers.

Despite the backlash, Schofield looked noticeably more relaxed as he walked his dog Alfie, even stopping to smile for photographers. The once-beloved TV star has maintained a low profile since his shocking affair was revealed 16 months ago, and his return to television is already proving to be divisive.

The former This Morning host’s public image took a nosedive when he admitted to an “unwise but not illegal” relationship with a younger male colleague, which ended his professional ties with ITV and his longtime co-presenter, Holly Willoughby. His fallout with Willoughby, coupled with his strained relationship with wife Stephanie Lowe, left him facing public scrutiny, and he has since kept a low profile—until now.

Reactions to his comeback have been mixed. While some fans are curious about the series, others have slammed the decision to give Schofield more screen time. Eamonn Holmes, who has been vocal about his issues with Schofield, couldn’t hide his disdain for the Cast Away announcement, letting out a laugh during a segment on GB News.

Holmes’ co-host, Isabel Webster, added fuel to the fire, questioning whether Schofield should be given a platform at all. “He lost his job, his friendships, and his reputation, and now he’s coming back with this? It’s quite the move.”

Schofield’s mental health was previously called into question following his abrupt exit from television, with the star admitting in past interviews that the fallout left him feeling suicidal. His daughters have reportedly been by his side throughout the ordeal, offering unwavering support as he grapples with the aftermath of his public fall from grace.

Cast Away, set to air across three nights at the end of September, will follow Schofield’s journey as he reflects on the past 18 months of his life, addressing his scandal and exile from mainstream television. With public opinion still divided, it remains to be seen whether his return will spark redemption—or yet more controversy.