Ashley Banjo insisted he has "nothing but love and respect" Phillip Schofield as the 'Dancing On Ice' presenter made his return to TV.
Phillip Schofield
The 57-year-old presenter - who came out as gay on Friday (07.02.20) - was hailed by the 'Dancing On Ice' judge as he returned to TV screens, with Ashley describing the veteran star as an "absolute legend".
After Phillip and his co-host Holly Willoughby introduced the show's judging panel, Ashley said: "Can I say just say Phil, big week and you have always been an absolute legend, but never more than this week, my friend.
"And I think I speak on behalf of all of us when I say we have got nothing but love and respect for you."
Ashley's comments prompted an outpouring of support for Phillip from the audience, as well as a warm embrace from Holly.
However, Phillip - who also co-hosts 'This Morning' alongside Holly - was eager not to take the spotlight.
He insisted: "It's not about me!"
Phillip - who has been married to wife Stephanie Lowe since 1993 - discussed his decision to come out as gay during an appearance on 'This Morning' on Friday.
After Holly read out a statement from the presenter, he explained: "It's funny, because everyone I've spoken to, you, have all been so supportive, loving and caring, and my entire family, to a person, have grabbed us and said, 'It's OK, it's OK. We love you, we're proud of you.'
"Every person I tell it gets a little lighter and a little lighter.
"I'm really very aware that Steph and the girls are at home watching this, and we're all together.
"We spent a lot of time together and they've been supporting us as we got to this moment.
"I feel a little lighter but I'm very aware there is no question it causes pain and upset. We've never had any secrets."
Asked how Steph is coping, he said: "It's tough. We've gone through this together. I have to deal with this for quite some time.
"I can't wait in any statement what I feel.
"She is amazing, she is incredible. There is no one in my life who would have supported me in the way she has supported me."
Tagged in Phillip Schofield