Phillip Schofield supported by huge star as she makes appearance in Cast Away
A HUGE star supported Phillip Schofield as he made his TV return - 16 months since his last appearance.
The former This Morning presenter is starring in Channel 5's Cast Away as he tells his side of the story that ended his 40-year career.
Airing over three nights, it sees Phil, 62, sent to a remote desert island where he's left to his own devices.
But before setting off, Joanna Lumley appeared on screen as she sent him a supportive message.
The Absolutely Fabulous star previously starred on the format and offered up friendly advice to Phil.
In a video message, Joanna said: “Listen, Phil these are the tips I’ve got, keep your knives sharp, spend much of the day trying to find wood otherwise you won’t be able to eat anything.
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“When I was on the island I made a pair of shoes out of my bra… and I would love to think that you could do something a bit challenging, and bring it back so we could all look at it.
“I shall be thinking of you all the time Phil, and actually I’m a little bit jealous, lots of love.”
The message visibly moved Phil as he replied: “Oh you darling, thank you so much, that’s amazing.”
Viewers have flooded social media with mixed responses, with one posting: "Phillip Schofield did nothing illegal but obviously the morons of Twitter know best. The daft c***s."
A second wrote: "I’m getting self-indulgent vibes from this."
"I won't be watching his pity party. He is despicable, never forget all the things he did and hurt he caused," said a third.