- Former Loose Women panellist Sherrie Hewson has stated that the long-running ITV chat show is a different show to what it once was, arguing that modern presenters must be very careful about what they say compared to the freedom panellists enjoyed in previous years.
- Hewson's remarks come weeks after high-profile departures from the programme, including Denise Welch, who left in August after 25 years, and Nadia Sawalha, who departed under controversial circumstances.
- Sawalha has threatened legal action against ITV, alleging she was bullied into leaving and targeted by a smear campaign after publicly voicing support for Palestine outside of the show.
- The recent departures and workplace tension follow significant budget cuts at ITV, which saw Loose Women episodes halved in length to 30 minutes, the removal of the live studio audience, and staff redundancies.
- While current presenter Charlene White insisted the panel remains supportive and adaptable amidst challenges, former panellist Carol McGiffin claimed the programme is in its final throes and suggested it should be taken off the air.
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