Ruth Langsford has been left heartbroken following the death of her dog Maggie. The TV presenter, 66, who split from Eamonn Holmes in 2024, took to social media on Wednesday night to announce the sad news that her canine companion had passed away at the age of 16.
Adopted as a rescue dog
The former This Morning host had adopted Maggie when she was just a year old and told fans that the end was “painless and peaceful” and she would cherish her memory forever.
She wrote on Instagram: “It is with a heavy heart that I tell you our beautiful Maggie has gone to sleep forever. [heartbroken emoji]. She was 16 years old and sadly this was her time. Her passing was painless and peaceful and we were with her until the very end.
“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.”
Support from celebrity friends
The Loose Women star was instantly supported by her celebrity friends who sent messages of condolences. Lisa Armstrong said: “Run free with Hurls beautiful Maggie x”
Vanessa Feltz said: “Oh Rut I am so very sorry to hear this sad news. I know how much you adored Maggie. Sending you hugs and love trough this testing time. Such a shame.”
Jeff Brazier said: “Sorry for your loss Ruth,” whilst Amanda Holden said: “Oh darling. I'm thinking of you.”
Emotional moments on Loose Women
Ruth often shared pictures of herself and Maggie with her Instagram followers and during an appearance on Loose Women once became very emotional over the thought that she would have to say goodbye to Maggie eventually.
During an episode broadcast in 2023, she said: “Maggie is a bit grey you know and she's 13-ish because she's a rescue dog, and it's like...'Oh that's what's going to happen...' as she reached for the tissues.
Custody shared with Eamonn Holmes
Eamonn and Ruth, who also have a son together, were reported to be involved in a custody dispute over Maggie, whom they had adopted as a family in 2011.
The pair ended up sharing custody of Maggie and in late 2025, Eamonn thanked Ruth, who regularly posts about taking Maggie on walks, and teased over his plans for the future.
He said: “Ruth does all the hard stuff with her because of my Wheelchair restrictions but working hard to hopefully get better soon and adopt another #Rescue #Dog like we did from @dogstrust all those years ago!”
The presenter added: “Maggie changed my life and she was making me very happy in The Sunshine today. In many ways she reminds me of my dearly departed Mum - a really bad knee and hardly any teeth left but not bad for a 17 year old!”
