Bradley Walsh is said to be a ‘serious contender’ to take Phillip Schofield's place on This Morning, after the latter announced that he had quit the programme "with immediate effect".
Phillip, 61, stepped down from his role at This Morning after a 21 year stint – following rumours of a "feud" with his co-presenter, Holly Willoughby, 42.
Rumours had been swirling that all was not well with the pair – which saw Phillip release a statement admitting "things haven't been easy" for them over the past few weeks prior to his exit.
And it seems that The Chase and Blankety Blank host Bradley, 62, is a hot favourite to replace Phillip, with Ladbrokes revealing that he's at 7/1.
Jessica O'Reilly of Ladbrokes said: "It's not out of the realms of possibility This Morning bosses mix things up by bringing in someone like Bradley Walsh, who is clearly loved by ITV viewers."
OK! has contacted ITV and Bradley's representatives for comment.
After mounting pressure, Phillip announced that he would be leaving This Morning on Saturday 20 May, as he released a statement in which he said he wanted to "protect the show that I love".
His statement, posted to his Instagram stories, read: "I have always been proud to cover fascinating stories on This Morning. But recently, This Morning itself has become the story.
"Throughout my career in TV – including the very difficult last few days – I have always done my best to be honourable and kind.
"I understand that ITV has decided the current situation can’t go on, and I want to do what I can to protect the show that I love.
"So I have agreed to step down from This Morning with immediate effect, in the hope that the show can move forward to a bright future."
He continued: "I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me – especially This Morning’s amazing viewers – and I’ll see you all for the Soap Awards next month."
Phillip's former co-host Holly posted her own statement to Instagram, which said diplomatically: "It’s been over 13 great years presenting This Morning with Phil and I want to take this opportunity to thank him for all of his knowledge, his experience and his humour. The sofa won’t feel the same without him."
Following Phillip's statement announcing his departure from the show, it was announced that Holly is set to take an extended break from presenting duties while Phil has since gone to Cornwall to spend time with his mum.
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