Ashley Banjo insisted he has "nothing but love and respect" for Phillip Schofield as the ‘Dancing On Ice’ presenter made his return to TV.
The 57-year-old presenter – who came out as gay on Friday (07.02.20) – was hailed by the ‘Dancing On Ice’ judge as he returned to TV screens, with Ashley describing the veteran star as an "absolute legend".
After Phillip and his co-host Holly Willoughby introduced the show’s judging panel, Ashley said: "Can I say just say Phil, big week and you have always been an absolute legend, but never more than this week, my friend.
"And I think I speak on behalf of all of us when I say we have got nothing but love and respect for you."
Ashley’s comments prompted an outpouring of support for Phillip from the audience, as well as a warm embrace from Holly.
However, Phillip – who also co-hosts ‘This Morning’ alongside Holly – was eager not to take the spotlight.
He insisted: "It’s not about me!"
Phillip – who has been married to wife Stephanie Lowe since 1993 – discussed his decision to come out as gay during an appearance on ‘This Morning’ on Friday.
After Holly read out a statement from the presenter, he explained: "It’s funny, because everyone I’ve spoken to, you, have all been so supportive, loving and caring, and my entire family, to a person, have grabbed us and said, ‘It’s OK, it’s OK. We love you, we’re proud of you.’
"Every person I tell it gets a little lighter and a little lighter.
"I’m really very aware that Steph and the girls are at home watching this, and we’re all together.
"We spent a lot of time together and they’ve been supporting us as we got to this moment.
"I feel a little lighter but I’m very aware there is no question it causes pain and upset. We’ve never had any secrets."
Asked how Steph is coping, he said: "It’s tough. We’ve gone through this together. I have to deal with this for quite some time.
"I can’t write in any statement what I feel.
"She is amazing, she is incredible. There is no one in my life who would have supported me in the way she has supported me."
Ashley Banjo pays tribute to Phillip Schofield
