Dame Joanna Lumley Backs Phillip Schofield’s TV Comeback with Survival Show
Dame Joanna Lumley has thrown her weight behind Phillip Schofield as he makes his TV return after nearly two years away. The former This Morning host, 62, will star in a new Channel 5 survival series, Phillip Schofield: Cast Away, where he must fend for himself in the wild.
Survival Skills Passed Down from Lumley
In a heartfelt message, 78-year-old Lumley shared tips from her own castaway days on the 1994 BBC show Girl Friday, which saw her stranded off Madagascar’s coast. “Keep your knives sharp and spend much of the day hunting for wood or you won’t eat,” she warned.
“When I was on the island, I made shoes out of my bra… I’d love to think you’ll bring something back to show us. I’ll be thinking of you all the time, Phil. Actually, I’m a little bit jealous. Lots of love.”
Phillip was quick to reply, “Oh you darling, thank you so much, that’s amazing.”
From Scandal to Survival: Schofield’s Bid to Win Back Viewers
Schofield’s comeback follows a turbulent time after he admitted to an affair with a younger colleague in 2023, calling it “unwise but not illegal.” The scandal forced him to quit ITV and This Morning. Now, he’s stepping into the wild in a bid to regain public trust.
The series will push Schofield through tough challenges: finding food, building shelter, and surviving alone in a remote spot over three episodes airing at 9pm from Monday, September 30 on Channel 5.
Mixed Reactions as Show Hits Screens
Fans and critics are divided on Schofield’s return. Some see it as a chance for redemption, others can’t forgive so easily. But Dame Joanna’s support shows she’s rooting for him—and can’t wait for the adventure to unfold.
How to Watch
- When: Monday, September 30, 9pm (Channel 5)
- Also airs: Tuesday & Wednesday at 9pm
- What to expect: Three episodes of survival challenges and raw, unfiltered wilderness drama
