PHILLIP Schofield was “shaking with nerves” before he hosted Dancing On Ice for the first time after he bravely came out.
During the episode, the 57-year-old was overcome with emotion as judge Ashley Banjo praised him and the audience cheered him on.
Now, Ashley has opened up about that special moment and his decision to speak out, ahead of the final this weekend.
He told The Sun Online: “I didn’t plan to make him cry but I said what I felt in the moment. It just felt right.
“Before the show he was shaking with nerves backstage. It felt right to tell him ‘it’s all good, let’s get on with it’.”
On the show he said: “Phil, it’s been a big week, a big big week. You have always been an absolute legend but never, never, ever more so than this week, my friend.
“I think I speak on behalf of all of us when I say we’ve got nothing but love and respect for you.”
This Morning presenter Phillip released a statement revealing his sexuality in February of this year.
He then shared the news on This Morning during an emotional interview with his co-star Holly Willoughby.
Phillip has been married to wife Steph for more than 20 years and they have two daughters – Molly and Ruby.
His wife has vowed to stand by him, telling The Sun: “I love Phillip, as much today as I ever have, and always will.
“We’ve been awestruck by the strength and love of our precious girls, even as they’ve been trying to make sense of it all for themselves.
“Our family have also been so supportive and will help us going forward.”
She added: “Although this is difficult for us all, I support Phillip in taking this brave step.”
The Dancing On Ice final airs at 6pm on Sunday on ITV.