Majella O’Donnell Slams Eamonn Holmes Over ‘Disgusting’ Phillip Schofield Comments
Majella O’Donnell, wife of Donegal singer Daniel O’Donnell, has publicly criticized broadcaster Eamonn Holmes for what she described as “disgusting” remarks about former ITV presenter Phillip Schofield.
The outspoken comments came after Holmes, now a presenter on GB News, continued his attacks on Schofield following the latter’s resignation from ITV’s This Morning in 2023. Schofield admitted to an affair with a younger male colleague, which he called “unwise but not illegal,” before stepping down after more than two decades at the network.
Holmes has since accused ITV of a “total cover up” and claimed that This Morning had become a “toxic” workplace environment. He has revisited the scandal multiple times across television appearances and interviews, describing the channel’s handling of the controversy as deeply flawed.
However, Majella O’Donnell made clear she had grown weary of Holmes’ repeated commentary. Taking to social media, she condemned his ongoing criticism and urged him to stop.
Sharing a screenshot of a past article referencing Holmes’ reported feud with his former GMTV colleague Anthea Turner, Majella wrote:
“Don’t treat people the way you do. It’s disgusting to hear you going on about PS [Phillip Schofield] regardless of his misjudgements. He did nothing illegal.”
In a follow-up post, Majella doubled down, calling Holmes’ behavior “toxic” and telling him bluntly to “shut up.”
“Enough is enough! Talk about toxic!! He made a mistake and apologised. Move on. Are you perfect? You most certainly are not, so be a professional and shut up.”
Her remarks quickly drew attention online, with fans applauding her for speaking out against what some have also described as Holmes’ relentless attacks.
Schofield’s departure in 2023 was one of the biggest broadcasting stories in Britain, sparking headlines about ITV’s internal culture and the pressures facing presenters. While Schofield admitted his relationship had been inappropriate, he has consistently emphasized that it was consensual and legal. Many high-profile figures have weighed in on the fallout, with reactions split between criticism of his conduct and sympathy for the toll the scandal has taken on his personal life.
Holmes, 65, has been among the most vocal critics, repeatedly describing the situation as indicative of deeper issues at ITV. His wife and co-presenter, Ruth Langsford, also previously worked with Schofield on This Morning, though the pair’s professional relationship was often reported to be strained.
For Majella O’Donnell, the tipping point appeared to be Holmes’ decision to revisit the scandal yet again. Known for her candor, she said she simply could not tolerate hearing him criticize Schofield any longer.
When asked if she wanted to expand on her social media comments, Majella replied: “Said all I need to say.”
Holmes has not publicly responded to Majella’s remarks. A representative for the broadcaster has been contacted for comment.
Majella, who has long spoken openly about issues ranging from her own cancer battle to her work on mental health awareness, is no stranger to voicing strong opinions. In this instance, her defense of Schofield adds another layer to the ongoing debate about forgiveness, accountability, and the role of the media in amplifying personal scandals.
While Schofield has remained largely out of the public eye since his resignation, Holmes’ repeated criticisms continue to keep the story in the headlines. Majella’s intervention suggests that, for some, the continued focus on the disgraced presenter has become less about accountability and more about unnecessary cruelty.
For now, her message to Holmes is unequivocal: it is time to move on.