Thursday's Loose Women episode opened with "really sad news" as the panel sent their love to co-star Ruth Langsford following the death of her dog Maggie.
Charlene White, Brenda Edwards, Judi Love, and Kéllé Bryan returned to ITV screens on Thursday, October 15, to host the show. Seconds in, they shared the news that came as a shock to them.
Panel's tribute to Maggie
Charlene said: "We're going to start with some really sad news, actually. It came as a bit of a shock to all of us this morning when our Ruth shared the news that her beloved dog Maggie has sadly passed away." She added: "Loads of you watching will of course have known Maggie for years, wouldn't they? All of us, she's like a part of our family."
Brenda said: "We were literally on the panel on Monday talking about Ruth and Maggie. Maggie is in every single conversation, and I'm sending so much love to Ruth right now because this is really sad." Judi, who admitted she didn't understand the bond between owner and pet before getting her own cat, added that her cat Bella is now a "part of the family."
Ruth's emotional statement
Charlene added: "We just absolutely adore Ruth, and we just know what a hit this will be," as Kelle replied: "Absolutely, and I think the relationship between Maggie and Ruth's mum has been one that we've all followed, and it's been so lovely that every time Maggie goes in, mum lights up."
Earlier this week, Ruth shared the news on social media with a photograph of Maggie, writing: "It is with a heavy heart that I tell you our beautiful Maggie has gone to sleep forever." She added that Maggie was 16 years old and her passing was painless and peaceful, with the family with her until the very end. Ruth wrote: "We are so thankful to have had her in our lives for 15 years… she gave us so much joy & unconditional love. We will treasure our memories forever. Rest in peace, our beautiful girl."
Tributes continue to pour in from fans and loved ones on social media. Loose Women airs weekdays on ITV at 12.30pm.
