Loose Women presenter Charlene White broke down in tears during Monday's episode as she candidly discussed the recent death of her father and the ongoing process of grief. The 46-year-old ITV newsreader joined panellists Coleen Nolan, Vogue Williams, and Jane Moore on the July 6 edition of the daytime show to talk about how each of them copes with loss.
Charlene's Emotional Admission
Opening up about her own experience, Charlene spoke about the passing of her father last year and the impact it has had on her life. Reflecting on spending her first birthday without him, she said: "I think on a day-to-day basis, you still have to get up and go to work and earn money and look after the kids and stuff like that, and it still takes a lot of energy to get through that."
Visibly struggling to hold back her emotions, Charlene admitted feeling particularly low on her birthday this year, acknowledging that there will be many more painful firsts to navigate as she adjusts to life without her father.
Instagram Tribute and Jamaican Nine Night
Last year, Charlene took to Instagram to share the heartbreaking news with her followers. She wrote: "Hug your parents close, and always tell them that you love them. Because that's sort of our job as children, to love them, no matter where the road eventually takes them."
She continued: "This post will no doubt prompt many of our friends who we haven't managed to reach out to yet, to contact us. Please don't be offended by any calls and messages that remain unanswered for now. This kind of grief is new and unexpected and we're still finding our way."
Speaking candidly, she further revealed in the post: "On Sunday we had the traditional Jamaican nine night, and the ancestors were right – it was the most perfect way to release our grief through food, dancing, drink... and joy, with hundreds of friends and family. If you're reading this and struggling, please talk to someone."
Support from Co-stars
At the time, Charlene received an outpouring of support from loved ones and Instagram followers. Among them was Coleen Nolan, who commented: "Oh Charlene, so so sorry to hear this news... thinking of you and your family! Love you." Jane Moore likewise expressed: "So sorry for your loss. Sending love."
Loose Women airs weekdays at 12:30pm on ITV1.
