Loose Women 'IT'S WAR!'

Is the show’s older cast being edged out in favour of the younger generation?

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Two months have passed since the Loose Women stars learnt that big changes are coming to the show. By the beginning of 2026, they know it is being cut to just 30 weeks of the year, it will be filmed in a new location and without an audience and guests.

However, the huge, sweeping alterations to the format that ITV is undertaking has meant the show has become a different beast behind the scenes, with reports of the women warring with each other as well as producers about what will happen with their jobs. In particular, it’s claimed that it’s caused a rift between the older legends and the younger newcomers.

‘This has caused absolute chaos. It’s war,’ a source close to one of the longstanding panellists tells Woman’s Own. ‘The older women feel betrayed. Some have been with the show for decades, since day one and yet they were given no heads-up. They found out with everyone else.’

Among those likely left reeling are veteran stars like Ruth Langsford, 65, Gloria Hunniford, 85, Charlene White, 45, Kaye Adams, 62, and Denise Welch, 67, who may be left wondering whether they'll be edged out. In their place could be younger names like Love Island star-turned-documentary-maker Olivia Attwood, 34, podcaster Grace ‘GK Barry’ Keeling, 25, and former singer Frankie Bridge, 36.

The source added, ‘They've weathered storms before, from ratings dips to the 2008 financial crisis, but this one feels different. They’re genuinely scared they're being quietly replaced.’

It’s easy to see why. ITV bosses have made no secret of their delight at the buzz generated by their newer recruits. Olivia Attwood, in particular, has won praise from viewers, with one fan writing, ‘Love Olivia. She’s worth every £,’ and another adding, ‘I love Olivia so much.’