…By Judah Olanisebee for TDPel Media.
This Morning Editor Criticized for Response to Toxic Work Environment Claims
Fallout from Phillip Schofield Affair Continues to Rock ITV’s This Morning
The This Morning editor, Martin Frizell, faced backlash for his response to allegations of a toxic work environment at the show.
When approached by Sky News, Frizell diverted the conversation with a comment about aubergines, drawing criticism from MP John Nicolson for being “deeply inappropriate and disrespectful.”
Frizell’s remarks come in the wake of former employees and presenters speaking out about the show’s culture.
Amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding Phillip Schofield’s resignation after confessing to an affair, concerns about workplace bullying and toxicity have come to the forefront.
Claims of Toxicity and Reactions:
Frizell’s remark about aubergines echoes his earlier suggestion that “scores are being settled” in response to allegations of a toxic work environment at This Morning.
Former resident doctor Dr. Ranj Singh had previously criticized the show’s culture, revealing his concerns about bullying and discrimination.
However, an external review commissioned by ITV found “no evidence of bullying or discrimination,” according to a letter from ITV boss Dame Carolyn McCall to parliament.
Eamonn Holmes, former This Morning presenter, also accused Schofield of “toxicity” in a recent interview.
Emily Maddick’s Revelations:
Adding to the growing concerns, Emily Maddick, former head of news at This Morning, shared her experiences of bullying, sexism, and a toxic culture of fear and intimidation during her time on the show.
In her Glamour magazine piece, she highlighted her 2019 exit interview with ITV’s HR department, which documented a “culture of intimidation.”
Maddick’s account further contributes to the emerging picture of a troubled work environment.
The Toll on Schofield and Willoughby:
Phillip Schofield, who admitted to the affair that triggered the scandal, recently expressed his struggles with the fallout.
He shared his feelings of shame, brokenness, and fear, stating that his daughters have been a source of support and protection.
Schofield compared his situation to that of Caroline Flack, highlighting the toll on his mental health.
Meanwhile, he clarified that his former co-presenter Holly Willoughby had no knowledge of the affair.
ITV’s Response and Parliamentary Inquiry:
In response to the Schofield controversy and the wider concerns raised, ITV’s Dame Carolyn will appear before a parliamentary committee on June 14 to address questions about safeguarding and complaint handling.
ITV has initiated an external review conducted by barrister Jane Mulcahy KC to examine the facts surrounding the situation.
The network’s actions demonstrate a commitment to addressing the issues at hand and providing transparency.
Conclusion:
The fallout from the Phillip Schofield affair continues to impact ITV’s This Morning, with allegations of a toxic work environment and workplace bullying coming to light.
The response from Martin Frizell, the show’s editor, has drawn criticism for being dismissive and inappropriate.
As the controversy unfolds, ITV is taking steps to investigate the claims through an external review.
The ongoing parliamentary inquiry further emphasizes the need for accountability and transparency in addressing the concerns raised.