A Celebrity PR Specialist has suggested that Phillip Schofield’s television comeback could “sabotage” his efforts to move on from his affair with a young runner on This Morning, which cost him his ITV job 16 months ago.
On Wednesday (September 25), the ex-This Morning host announced that he will be fronting a new Channel 5 programme called Cast Away, which follows his 10-day journey of being stranded on an island near Madagascar.
Sharing his adventure on Instagram, he posted: “Now you know how I spent my summer! Alone for 10 days, no food, no water, no crew. My story of survival, both on a desert island and off it.”
With his new show set to premiere on Monday, Celebrity PR Specialist Kayley Cornelius shared her thoughts on what this move could signify for the 62-year-old.
On behalf of Betfred, she commented: “Phillip Schofield seems to be leaning into the ‘dishevelled man’ persona with his questionable TV comeback choice,” reports the Express.
“The deserted setting and off-the-cuff appearance come across as subtle attempts to evoke sympathy from viewers.
“While the show aims to feel authentic and raw, it’s a far cry from anything we’ve seen Phil do before, making it feel inauthentic and staged.”
In the three-part reality series, the broadcaster will share his personal thoughts using a handheld and body camera along with a sound pack, all without a production crew around.
Giving a further insight into what’s to come, he added: “I’ve recently had a lot of time to think about my life, what went right and what went wrong, but I’ve always had the safe arms of friends and family wrapped around me. This time it’s just me, no phone, no comforts, no crew and only lip balm as a luxury.”
Now the presenter is back in the spotlight, the PR Specialist explained: “If Phil’s goal was to move past his affair, this show may have sabotaged that effort, as it will likely reignite discussions about the scandal.”
She went on to warn the broadcaster that he needs to “strike a balance between being honest and remorseful”, while taking accountability for his past and showing signs of change.
She concluded: “The pressure is on for Phil. He knew his next major move would be crucial, and this series marks his last chance to revive his career.
“While his team has been easing him back into the public eye and paving the way for his return, if this series, a major stepping stone to getting back on mainstream TV, doesn’t pan out well and resonate with viewers at home, a full comeback will be nearly impossible, as broadcasters will fear the potential negative backlash.”
Reach PLC has reached out to a representative for Phillip and Channel 5 for comment.