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Life's What You Make It
For forty years we've watched Phillip on our tellies, from children's TV to This Morning and Dancing on Ice, but what is it like on set and who is he when the camera's off?
In Life's What You Make It Philip for the first time takes us behind the scenes of his remarkable career.
From his idyllic childhood in Cornwall, where for years he pestered the BBC for a job, eventually landing a prize position in the Broom Cupboard with mischievous sidekick Gordon the Gopher, through hosting Going Live!, starring in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat and finally finding his on-screen home and presenting-partner Holly Willoughby on This Morning , Phillip takes us on the highs and lows of his extraordinary life.
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'For a long time, I felt that I couldn't write this book. At first, I didn't think I'd lived enough, then life got busy and filled with distractions. In more recent years, there was always a very painful consideration - I knew where it would eventually have to go.
'I have recently decided that the truth is the only thing that can set me free. The truth has taken a long time to make itself clear to me, but now is the right time to share it, all of it.
'Television and broadcasting has been a part of my DNA for as long as I can remember. As a young boy I would make model TV sets out of cardboard boxes, while spending long summers at home, barefoot on Cornwall's golden beaches. Landing a job at the ice-cream kiosk, I would enviously look on as my presenting heroes took to the stage of Radio 1's Roadshow, an unforgettable event when it came to town.
'In Life's What You Make It I look back with nostalgic delight on my life, from being a young boy endlessly writing letters to the BBC in pursuit of a job in broadcasting, to making it on to the Broom Cupboard, with my infamous sidekick Gordon the Gopher, to being on Going Live and starring as the lead in Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber's Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. It has taken four decades to get here but I feel lucky to have called the sets of Talking Telephone Numbers, The Cube, Dancing on Ice and of course, This Morning, home.
'I'm going to take you behind the scenes of my television home at ITV, into my career and my dangerously funny relationship with Holly Willoughby. I'm going to introduce you to my loving and remarkable family, and I hope most of all to tell you that life, it seems, is what you make it. Take it from someone who has sat on the very edge and looked over, it's all about the people that love you, and after that anything is possible. So, finally, here we go, this is the real me.'
____
In Life's What You Make It Philip for the first time takes us behind the scenes of his remarkable career.
From his idyllic childhood in Cornwall, where for years he pestered the BBC for a job, eventually landing a prize position in the Broom Cupboard with mischievous sidekick Gordon the Gopher, through hosting Going Live!, starring in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat and finally finding his on-screen home and presenting-partner Holly Willoughby on This Morning , Phillip takes us on the highs and lows of his extraordinary life.
____
'For a long time, I felt that I couldn't write this book. At first, I didn't think I'd lived enough, then life got busy and filled with distractions. In more recent years, there was always a very painful consideration - I knew where it would eventually have to go.
'I have recently decided that the truth is the only thing that can set me free. The truth has taken a long time to make itself clear to me, but now is the right time to share it, all of it.
'Television and broadcasting has been a part of my DNA for as long as I can remember. As a young boy I would make model TV sets out of cardboard boxes, while spending long summers at home, barefoot on Cornwall's golden beaches. Landing a job at the ice-cream kiosk, I would enviously look on as my presenting heroes took to the stage of Radio 1's Roadshow, an unforgettable event when it came to town.
'In Life's What You Make It I look back with nostalgic delight on my life, from being a young boy endlessly writing letters to the BBC in pursuit of a job in broadcasting, to making it on to the Broom Cupboard, with my infamous sidekick Gordon the Gopher, to being on Going Live and starring as the lead in Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber's Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. It has taken four decades to get here but I feel lucky to have called the sets of Talking Telephone Numbers, The Cube, Dancing on Ice and of course, This Morning, home.
'I'm going to take you behind the scenes of my television home at ITV, into my career and my dangerously funny relationship with Holly Willoughby. I'm going to introduce you to my loving and remarkable family, and I hope most of all to tell you that life, it seems, is what you make it. Take it from someone who has sat on the very edge and looked over, it's all about the people that love you, and after that anything is possible. So, finally, here we go, this is the real me.'
____
400 pages, Paperback
First published October 15, 2020
151 people are currently reading
592 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
October 22, 2020
As a huge fan of Phillip Schofield for over 33 years this is the best book I have read in a long time. It's amazing to read through all his achievements in his work in radio, tv and on stage but what shines through the most is his love for his wonderful family. How they mean the world to him.
The book is full of lots of different stories through his life, some made me laugh out loud and some made me cry in particular the story about his fathers passing. The book also reveals the truth around his coming out and his mental health.
Phillip is a lovely genuine kind hearted man and I am absolutely chuffed to pieces that he included me in the list of his longest fans on the thank you page. It meant the world to me.
The book is full of lots of different stories through his life, some made me laugh out loud and some made me cry in particular the story about his fathers passing. The book also reveals the truth around his coming out and his mental health.
Phillip is a lovely genuine kind hearted man and I am absolutely chuffed to pieces that he included me in the list of his longest fans on the thank you page. It meant the world to me.
February 1, 2021
Its one of those books that you read if you like the person, and I do like Philip. I think most of us watch his career unfold on tv, then he seemed to disappear for a while then he came back, but when he came he seemed to everywhere. Well this book, fills in all those gaps.
As you can imagine with all those years in tv, its written well, there are lots of stories in there to make you smile, laugh, but also one or two that may make you shed a tear too. It seems very honestly written, and I admire that, but it doesn't take it from the Schofield personality at all when he talks about nearing losing his Dad in New Zealand and he performs cpr on him, until help arrives, later the family decide to move back to Cornwall. Philip comes back with the family, to be nearer his Dad, they are indeed a close family. It was lovely to read that when Philip was earning enough he told his Dad to retire and he would fund his parents retirement, just so his dad could take it easier, provided he finished the bathroom he was helping Philip with first.
Towards the end of the book there was a sense of nervousness, were that chapter hoovered.....
'the chapter' the chapter wrapped up with twitter announcements etc at the time. I suppose at the time he wrote the book he knew he had to put it in, it was about to be announced, he was about to come out, you could sense the fear in his writing, but there was no need, as he said, because he's Philip and we all love him.
It is a lovely book.
As you can imagine with all those years in tv, its written well, there are lots of stories in there to make you smile, laugh, but also one or two that may make you shed a tear too. It seems very honestly written, and I admire that, but it doesn't take it from the Schofield personality at all when he talks about nearing losing his Dad in New Zealand and he performs cpr on him, until help arrives, later the family decide to move back to Cornwall. Philip comes back with the family, to be nearer his Dad, they are indeed a close family. It was lovely to read that when Philip was earning enough he told his Dad to retire and he would fund his parents retirement, just so his dad could take it easier, provided he finished the bathroom he was helping Philip with first.
Towards the end of the book there was a sense of nervousness, were that chapter hoovered.....
'the chapter' the chapter wrapped up with twitter announcements etc at the time. I suppose at the time he wrote the book he knew he had to put it in, it was about to be announced, he was about to come out, you could sense the fear in his writing, but there was no need, as he said, because he's Philip and we all love him.
It is a lovely book.
May 19, 2021
felt that it was a bit like a CV but was candid in parts , overall it was an easy read
October 22, 2020
As a UK girl whom now lives in Australia I had heard an interview with him and I downloaded the audiobook to listen to while I drove on a long trip. Often I find I switch to music in between but I couldn’t stop listening to Phillip’s story and couldn’t wait to get back in the car to listen to the next chapter. Often heart breakingingly vulnerable he is also very funny and candid about personal details of his life, some of which I’m sure he would have preferred to keep private. Thank you for your bravery and honesty Phillip and all the best of luck in your future life both personal and professional.
April 24, 2021
This book tells the story of how Phillip Schofield got into TV and charts his TV and radio career from The broom cupboard through his years on Live and Kicking, Joseph and through to This Morning. Honest, frank and a trip down memory lane. Listened on audio which Phillip narrates. Really enjoyed it.
July 6, 2021
Very powerful book, sensistively written. Very much a "showbusiness" story for the first 360 pages, then 30 pages of coming out. In effect, two different books, the first not related to the 2nd at all. Recommended.
January 12, 2021
A very funny and a well written book. I loved it. It was full of Heart and love.
May 10, 2021
I would like to be Phillip Schofield's best friend.
July 12, 2021
I'm going to be honest here. I read this under duress for book club. I have never had much of a desire to know much about Philip Schofield. He's a nice bloke that's done well. The end.
February 14, 2021
Read this in one day so it obviously kept my attention but it was really more of a detailed CV. I'm sure fans will enjoy it.
December 13, 2020
The thing about Phillip Schofield is that he's been in the background of pretty much all of my life, from Broom Cupboard to This Morning, so this was a fascinating read where it covered things I remembered in detail (when he invited viewers to send in chain letters, that was a whole time, and the Radio One Roadshow, Joseph at the Palladium, all that), and as I listened to the audiobook, I mean, Phillip's a broadcaster; he sure knows how to tell a story. As so often though, I struggled more with the recent parts, and whilst I have enormous empathy for anyone navigating their identity later in life, it felt...quite empty to listen to, lacking in detail other than contextless dread and fear, and by consequence really very difficult to hear. I know telling these stories at all is difficult and I hope it felt valuable to do, but the net effect is a bit odd, when you contrast it with the rest of the book. I suppose perhaps it's far too soon to expect a clear narrative when someone isn't living that yet, but I don't know, I wonder if the last couple of years might have been a different book for a few years' time. Regardless, fond and warm for the most part, and I hope he's doing good.
February 8, 2021
I have always loved watching YouTube clips of Phil and Holly on 'This Morning' so when I heard he was releasing an auto-biography, I had to get it!
When I started reading this book, I found it a little bit boring because it was mostly about TV and radio and I haven't a massive interest in either of them really. As it goes on though, it's full of funny, personal little anecdotes that will make you giggle out loud to yourself. This memoir will send you on a rollercoaster of emotions as you experience what feels like Schofield's running thought process from his younger days all the way up to 2020. The reader accompanies him on a journey through the roughest patches of his life, as well as the highest of highs.
I'll give no spoilers but I will say that he talks about his friendship with Holly a good bit so if you love them as a pair like I do, you'll want to read this.
It's a very light, easy read as it is written in an informal, conversational style. You could read the whole thing in one sitting on a rainy day.
When I started reading this book, I found it a little bit boring because it was mostly about TV and radio and I haven't a massive interest in either of them really. As it goes on though, it's full of funny, personal little anecdotes that will make you giggle out loud to yourself. This memoir will send you on a rollercoaster of emotions as you experience what feels like Schofield's running thought process from his younger days all the way up to 2020. The reader accompanies him on a journey through the roughest patches of his life, as well as the highest of highs.
I'll give no spoilers but I will say that he talks about his friendship with Holly a good bit so if you love them as a pair like I do, you'll want to read this.
It's a very light, easy read as it is written in an informal, conversational style. You could read the whole thing in one sitting on a rainy day.
January 14, 2021
After putting this on my Christmas list, I was very keen to read this book. I never knew a lot about Philip's early life and how his career started out. Even though at times it seemed to ramble a little, once I got into the prose, I really enjoyed this. I laughed and I cried... overall a great read to know the guy behind the camera!
February 4, 2021
I am a fan of Phillip Schofield. But, having read the book, I realised how little I knew about his life and achievements. The first half discusses mostly his childhood, time on the radio and his work throughout the 80s and 90s which, as someone born in the late 90s, I found hard to relate to. Having said that, when Phillip started writing about his on-screen life as well as his roles in the West End, I couldn't put the book down. Phillip is honest, cheeky and vulnerable in this autobiography. I shed a few tears near the end - I'm so glad I bought this book.
February 20, 2021
Let's start on a positive. The final few chapters are definitely worth waiting for. I do like Phillip and I always have but I'm not a mega fan. I just think he seems a really nice bloke so asked for this book as a Christmas present. I enjoyed reading about his early life and there are some very heartwarming moments, however I got bored half way through and felt like I was reading a very detailed CV. If you buy it, stick with it because the last few chapters are really worth the wait and I'm not just talking about his coming out story. This rating was going to be a three star got upgraded at the final hurdle.
January 1, 2021
Really enjoyed this- it reminded me that I’m a fan of autobiographies. Well written and interesting. I’d love to hear the other version/ perspective of some eg Fern Britain but in general I finished thinking he was a thoroughly nice guy!
January 26, 2021
For anyone watching kids TV in the early 80’s Philip Schofield was a permanent fixture so it was lovely to read about him from childhood to now. He basically “manifested” his life- quite remarkable really but goodness him. An easy read but probably would appeal to readers over the age of 50!
June 7, 2021
This is a 4.5 rating.
I loved listening to this autobiography and I was interested in everything, from The Radio 1 roadshow, to The Broom cupboard, to This Morning. It was very easy to listen to and he really enjoys his work. I don’t know how he read the last few chapters though, as he sounded very emotional.
A really good and interesting read.
I loved listening to this autobiography and I was interested in everything, from The Radio 1 roadshow, to The Broom cupboard, to This Morning. It was very easy to listen to and he really enjoys his work. I don’t know how he read the last few chapters though, as he sounded very emotional.
A really good and interesting read.
January 3, 2021
A candid honest book. I loved it!
January 7, 2021
I think I love this man more than I ever have that's possible. I loved this. I found it a little hard to get into but I've devoured 3/4 of the book in one sitting. Highly recommend
March 31, 2021
I 100% loved this. It took me back to seeing Phillip in Joseph in London and Edinburgh multiple times. Dr Doolittle in Edinburgh. I can remember "studying" while listening to his radio show on Thursdays and Sundays. I remember the chemistry he had with Mark Shaw and the fantastic banter between them. His love of radio, tv and theatre shines through. Unlike some of his contemporaries he hasn't written a book to take swipes at others. Fascinating story.
August 3, 2021
I quite like an autobiography from time to time.
I’ve always liked Philip Schofield and after recent announcements made by him, was more interested in his life.
An easy and interesting read. He sounds like such a nice and fun man!
I’ve always liked Philip Schofield and after recent announcements made by him, was more interested in his life.
An easy and interesting read. He sounds like such a nice and fun man!
February 27, 2021
Fascinating book which had me laughing and completely hooked!
October 30, 2020
I really enjoyed this book and found out things I didn’t know which we’re interesting. He has such a funny sense of humour. Still sounds very mixed up in himself though. Got a long way to go.
February 3, 2021
Fantastic book! I laughed, i cried and I relived my childhood! Love the silver fox
October 30, 2020
Made me laugh and cry what an amazing man
October 19, 2020
🍂🍁🍂🍁
As soon as this book was advertised on Instagram I was so looking forward to reading it, so I preordered a signed copy and patiently waited.
From the early day’s of This Morning with Phil and Fern that I watched with my Mum as I loved their laughs, to Mr and Mrs, Dancing on ice, The Cube, 5 gold rings and these days still This Morning and it’s one of my go to YouTube worm hole watches with the funny moments clips to cheer me up when needed, without a doubt Phillip has always been a firm favourite of mine!
This was such a heartwarming and wonderful read, the writing is just brilliant and I just felt I was sitting with him while he was relaying his life story. It has tender heartbreaking moments such as when he tells of his Fathers passing and the final section of the book ending on his coming out on This Morning which was such a raw and emotional moment. This book has many funny moments lots of behind the scenes type looks throughout his career and just you can tell his passion for what he does it honestly leaps off the page as you read it.
There is a reason he’s one of the most successful and most loved tv personalities, he’s always seemed like a really down to earth, humble and genuine person and I really felt this book was such a beautiful snapshot of that. My love for him has increased and I didn’t think that was possible ha. Reading of his passion for what he does and what he’s done in career truly just made me smile a lot.
Starting at the very beginning and covering his first jobs, then his move into Radio, Theatre and then finally Tv, this was always such an interesting read, and very insightful learning about the ins and outs of those businesses and just an eye opening behind the scenes look. Filled with humorous anecdotes and memories it was such a cosy and raw read at times and I would highly recommend to anyone who is a fan of his.
Obviously it’s going to be a full 5 ⭐️ for me (but then if you knew me you wouldn’t expect any less)
As soon as this book was advertised on Instagram I was so looking forward to reading it, so I preordered a signed copy and patiently waited.
From the early day’s of This Morning with Phil and Fern that I watched with my Mum as I loved their laughs, to Mr and Mrs, Dancing on ice, The Cube, 5 gold rings and these days still This Morning and it’s one of my go to YouTube worm hole watches with the funny moments clips to cheer me up when needed, without a doubt Phillip has always been a firm favourite of mine!
This was such a heartwarming and wonderful read, the writing is just brilliant and I just felt I was sitting with him while he was relaying his life story. It has tender heartbreaking moments such as when he tells of his Fathers passing and the final section of the book ending on his coming out on This Morning which was such a raw and emotional moment. This book has many funny moments lots of behind the scenes type looks throughout his career and just you can tell his passion for what he does it honestly leaps off the page as you read it.
There is a reason he’s one of the most successful and most loved tv personalities, he’s always seemed like a really down to earth, humble and genuine person and I really felt this book was such a beautiful snapshot of that. My love for him has increased and I didn’t think that was possible ha. Reading of his passion for what he does and what he’s done in career truly just made me smile a lot.
Starting at the very beginning and covering his first jobs, then his move into Radio, Theatre and then finally Tv, this was always such an interesting read, and very insightful learning about the ins and outs of those businesses and just an eye opening behind the scenes look. Filled with humorous anecdotes and memories it was such a cosy and raw read at times and I would highly recommend to anyone who is a fan of his.
Obviously it’s going to be a full 5 ⭐️ for me (but then if you knew me you wouldn’t expect any less)
October 25, 2020
I always find it hard to critique autobiographies, because it is their story and therefore, how can you find a flaw in it?
The only thing I would’ve changed, as I found the chapters quite long. But I loved how much he loves his family and friends, the emotional connection he has to each of them spills out from the pages. I’m glad he’s finally living his truth, and I’m also really glad that he didn’t feel the need to ‘own up to anything‘ and explain how his family dynamic will change going forward. He did this all on his own terms, which is admirable.
The only thing I would’ve changed, as I found the chapters quite long. But I loved how much he loves his family and friends, the emotional connection he has to each of them spills out from the pages. I’m glad he’s finally living his truth, and I’m also really glad that he didn’t feel the need to ‘own up to anything‘ and explain how his family dynamic will change going forward. He did this all on his own terms, which is admirable.
January 31, 2021
It was one of the best autobiographies I have ever read. I felt I was in the same room as Phillip, talking to him on a one-to-one-basis.
I feel as though I know him as personal friend now.
Excellent book.
I feel as though I know him as personal friend now.
Excellent book.
January 22, 2021
(Audiobook) Ah Phillip. I’ve always been a fan. Enjoyed this a lot!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews