Phillip Schofield's 'real test' with TV comeback as 'pressure mounts' to save his career

EXCLUSIVE: Phillip Schofield's new Channel 5 reality show Cast Away has been described as a "crucial" moment in the former This Morning presenter's career, following his self-confessed affair

Phillip Schofield's "crucial" return to television has been dubbed a "subtle attempt to evoke sympathy from viewers", by a celebrity PR guru.

On Wednesday, the ex This Morning host took to Instagram to announce that he is fronting new Channel 5 series Cast Away, which will see him stranded on an island off Madagascar for a gruelling 10 days.

Detailing his adventure, the host said: "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."

Ahead of the show's debut on Monday, PR expert Kayley Cornelius shared what his return to TV might spell out for his career down the line.

On behalf of Betfred, she remarked: "Phillip Schofield seems to be leaning into the 'dishevelled man' persona with his questionable TV comeback choice.

"The deserted setting and off-the-cuff appearance come across as subtle attempts to evoke sympathy from viewers."

She added: "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."

Intrigue mounts as the three-part series will show Phil baring his soul with just handheld and body cameras plus a sound pack, without a crew by his side like he was once used to.

In his statement, 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."

Kayley warns that Phillip's return could potentially "sabotage" his attempts to move on from his self-confessed affair with a young runner on This Morning 16 months ago.

His resignation from ITV followed the bombshell revelation, and he has maintained a low profile until now.

Delving deeper, the PR expert commented: "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 explained that recovering from a PR nightmare involves three critical stages known as the three A's; accountability, apology, and action - all essential for overcoming such an event.

"Phil has already acknowledged the situation and apologised, but the real test in this series will be how much accountability he takes for his actions," she added.

For the show to succeed, Kayley notes that Phillip must "strike a balance between being honest and remorseful" while also visibly demonstrating 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 representatives for Phillip and Channel 5 for a comment.