Steps singer Ian ‘H’ Watkins has led a host celebrities who have publicly supported Phillip Schofield after he announced he is gay.
The openly gay 43-year-old singer – who is currently participating in the first same-sex partnership on ‘Dancing on Ice’ – applauded Phillip, who is a co-host on the ITV figure skating competition, for coming out on his show ‘This Morning’ on Friday morning (07.02.30).
Sharing a photo of the pair alongside his dance partner Matt Evers and Phillip’s co-star Holly Willoughby he wrote: "Bravo Phillip for your honesty … Coming out is difficult but your family, friends and fans will be proud of you being your authentic self … I’m proud of your bravery.. Welcome officially to our beautiful rainbow family! We and our ally’s will keep you safe xx #lgbtq #lgbt (sic)"
Matt also took to Twitter to show his support for his friend, who he has worked with on ‘Dancing On Ice’ since 2006.
The 43-year-old professional ice skater wrote: "Thank you
@Schofe for your bravery and honesty. Being your friend and colleague for the past 15 years I’m sending you and your family all the love and support. #loveislove (sic)"
Whilst, ‘Dancing on Ice’ judge John Barrowman praised Phil and his family for their strength by sharing a heartwarming post on Instagram.
The ‘Doctor Who’ actor’s post read: "So proud of you and your family Phillip. Welcome to your truth and authentic self. The nation loves you for who you because you are @schofe Can’t wait to hug you and don’t worry we got your back we are #LGBTQ+strong welcome to the family JB (sic)"
The 57-year-old TV presenter – who has been married to wife Stephanie Lowe since 1993 – shared a statement on social media before appearing live on ‘This Morning’ alongside his co-host Holly, 38, to tell viewers that he is homosexual.
Shortly after his post to Instagram, Holly shared a loving photo of the pair and captioned: "Never been more proud of my friend than I am today. We’ll be together at 10am on This Morning x"
Other members of the ‘This Morning’ family reached out to their dear friend to commend him for his bravery.
Dr Ranj Singh – who was married when he came out as gay – said he was ‘beaming with pride’ for the presenter, before adding that he was a ‘blubbering mess’ today watching Phillip speak about his journey.
He wrote on Twitter: "Coming to terms with & being your authentic self is never easy, especially in the public eye.
"What @Schofe has done is incredibly courageous, powerful & will help so many. I am beaming with pride for him. I’m even more proud of his family who seem so wonderful."
Whilst, Gok Wan – who appears as the show’s fashion expert – also took to Twitter to share his love.
He wrote: "So much love to you @Schofe such bravery xxxxx"
Showbiz reporter Allison Hammond retweeted the many loving comments from the ITV show co-stars and commented: "So proud."
Ian ‘H’ Watkins applauds ‘brave’ Phillip Schofield for coming out
