THE announcement that TV presenter Philip Schofield has come out as gay has sparked quite the discussion.

Firstly, well done to Phillip for feeling comfortable enough and happy within himself to come out to the nation.

The reveal has been hailed as a “hugely powerful and courageous move” by the LGBT+ equality charity Stonewall.

However, I think it’s a shame how coming out is made to be such a big deal - especially when there are much bigger and more serious things going in the world.

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There is always a massive fuss about people coming out – I mean it’s the 21st century for goodness sake and times have changed.

Legalising same-sex marriage in England in 2013 was a step in the right direction and has opened peoples minds to be more accepting and understanding of the LGBT+ community.

Despite a few who will disagree, at the end of the day love is love, and being gay does not impact or involve anyone else’s life.

This is what confuses me, when you hear stories about family members and friends who ‘disown’ someone after they come out.

It shouldn’t’ cause as much heart-break or pull families apart.

We still need to tackle the stigma that comes along with being gay. Because thinking about it, straight people don’t feel the need to come out and tell their family they like the opposite sex. So, why is there so much pressure on gay people to be labelled as a homosexual. It should be as simple as bringing your partner home and introducing them to your family – like a straight couple would.

So, it’s better late than never for Phillip, as the ITV presenter for This Morning made the announcement via a post on Instagram.

The 57-year-old, who has two daughters with his wife Stephanie Lowe, said: “With the strength and support of my wife and my daughters, I have been coming to terms with the fact that I am gay.

“This is something that has caused many heart-breaking conversations at home.

“My inner conflict contrasts with an outside world that has changed so very much for the better. Today, quite rightly, being gay is a reason to celebrate and be proud. Yes, I am feeling pain and confusion, but that comes only from the hurt that I am causing to my family.”