For Phillip Schofield, February 7 2020 was a momentous day for it was when he sat down with Holly Willoughby to talk about his recent announcement.
Just moments earlier, the former presenter had released a heartfelt message on social media in which he came out as gay. During his emotional appearance on the show, Phillip broke down at the time after admitting that he could not have done it without the support of Holly, his wife Steph and their two daughters.
While he said he was proud of coming out, he was also "conscious of the hurt" he may have caused. It was also during the interview that Phillip explained to the presenters that he had broken the news to his mum, Pat.
Her straightforward response was to the point, but also touching in its own way. The dad-of-two had actually travelled down to Cornwall to tell his mum in person. "My mum has been on the phone all morning," Phillip told during his emotional interview back in 2020. "I went down to see her in Cornwall. Phillip then broke the news to his mum, revealing "She said: 'Oh ok, well I don’t care.'"
The presenter laughed as he recalled his mum's simple yet loving response to his announcement. At the time, Phillip also praised his wife and daughters as they supported him through the difficult time.
In his statement, Phillip added: "Steph has been incredible - I love her so very much. She is the kindest soul I have ever met. My girls have been astonishing in their love, hugs and encouraging words of comfort. Both mine and Steph's entire families have stunned me with their love, instant acceptance and support. Of course they are worried about Steph, but I know they will scoop us both up. My friends are the best, especially Holly, who has been so kind and wise - and who has hugged me as I sobbed on her shoulder.
Phillip has sadly announced that his beloved mum Pat has passed away. The former star, 62, took to to announce the sad news this evening.
Alongside a selection of photos of himself and his mum Pat, Phillip wrote: "Today, at 3pm and after a heartbreaking weekend, my magnificent mum decided it was time to go to her beloved Brian.
"Over three days, we held her, loved her, hugged her and said everything that needed to be said. She was calm, peaceful, beautiful and dignified. I will forever be proud and privileged that she was my mum."
Phillip added: "Our eternal thanks to the paramedics, Treliske A&E and Critical Care team who have been, in the past and this weekend, my mum's and our angels. Your love and care has been our saviour."
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