This Morning returned to ITV for the first instalment of the magazine show this week and Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby were back presenting.
Kicking off the show, Holly made reference to her co-star’s birthday and wished him happy returns.
She said embracing Phillip: “We can’t start the show without saying a very Happy Birthday to you.” And he replied: “Thanks! It’s the first time I’ve had my birthday on the tele for a while! It’s always in Easter holidays, or weekends.”
‘It’s nice to be sharing it with everybody,” Holly continued. “And I know that you don’t like too much of a fuss, however, bear with me, because I know there is a certain lady that you would love to have in here on This Morning sofa and interview one day.
“And she’s sent you a message to wish you a happy birthday. You’re going to like this.”
With a shocked expression, Phillip looked into the camera, and those at home saw Dame Judi Dench appear.
“I’m coming to wish you Happy April Fool’s Day, which I happen to hear is also your birthday!” The actress began.
“So, Happy Birthday! And I’m sorry I’m not there but I’m in Borneo, so I can’t come and give you a big hug, but I will when I get back. Lots of love, have a lovely day.”
Phillip was seen with his face very close up to the studio screen, mouth wide open as Judi spoke.
“Best present ever!” He exclaimed and Holly added: “I knew you’d love that, I know!”
“Oh my god it’s the best present ever!” Phillip repeated, “I know isn’t it nice!” Holly replied.
“And you know what’s funny, this morning they [producers] came in and went ‘I know he doesn’t like fuss but we’ve got a message from Dame Judy Dench and maybe we won’t play it’ and I was like ‘no! He will love it.’ It’s really special.”
In response, Phillip gushed: “That is fabulous. Best present ever, oh my god!”
More to follow…
This Morning airs weekday mornings at 10.30am on ITV.
