Former Loose Women panellist Carol McGiffin has publicly disclosed a major backstage argument with her co-star Kaye Adams, a clash so intense it contributed to her decision to leave the ITV daytime show for good.
The Podcast Revelation
Speaking candidly on Andrew Gold's Heretics podcast, McGiffin explained that the on-set atmosphere had been fraught since the COVID-19 pandemic, largely due to her well-known anti-mask and anti-lockdown stance. She noted that just as the pandemic began to recede, Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, which immediately became a hot topic for discussion on the programme.
The 'Massive' Pre-Show Row
The tension came to a head during the early days of the war. Loose Women decided to address the conflict, but McGiffin refused to offer unconditional support for Ukraine. "There was someone on the show that day and we had this massive, massive, massive row before the show," Carol revealed. She insisted she wasn't on anyone's side, preferring to examine the complex historical context behind the invasion rather than taking a definitive stance.
This position created huge friction with a fellow panellist. When pressed by the podcast host, McGiffin identified her colleague as Kaye Adams. Despite the heated disagreement, Carol was quick to note that she and Kaye had always been "really good friends," even though their differing opinions frequently caused rifts.
Lasting Consequences and Final Departure
McGiffin criticised what she perceived as intolerance from the show and from those she described as leftists, who she felt were collectively demonising Russian leader Vladimir Putin. She stated she refused to believe Putin was "insane and mad" and resisted efforts to "make Putin the enemy."
This backstage confrontation was a significant moment. Carol McGiffin officially left Loose Women in 2023 after initially being one of the original stars and spending a total of around 18 years on the panel. She now says it is likely she will never return to the show. The Mirror has contacted Kaye Adams' representation for comment regarding these claims.
