Loose Women viewers were left concerned on Friday when panellist Olivia Attwood unexpectedly vanished from the show following a dramatic health scare that required immediate medical attention.
Unexpected Absence Sparks Concern
The popular ITV daytime programme typically features four regular panellists, but Friday's episode saw only three presenters - Kaye Adams, Nadia Sawalha and Jane Moore - take their seats. Olivia Attwood, who had been scheduled to join them, was noticeably absent from the opening sequence.
The remaining presenters briefly explained that the 34-year-old was missing due to illness, though they provided no further details about the nature of her condition or when she might return to the show.
Behind-the-Scenes Medical Drama
Taking matters into her own hands, the former Love Island star turned to Instagram to keep her concerned followers updated about her wellbeing. She shared a striking image showing her being attended by medical professionals within the ITV studios, revealing the seriousness of the situation.
Earlier on Friday, Olivia had already indicated she was feeling unwell by posting a picture of her arm with an IV drip attached. However, her condition appeared to deteriorate significantly throughout the day, culminating in the need for urgent medical intervention.
In the revealing Instagram story, a medic could be seen kneeling beside her on the studio floor with a heart rate monitor clearly visible in the background. Olivia wrote: 'I'm really sorry to anyone that was expecting me to be on Loose Women today - got to work and my body finally said no. Thank you to the team for looking after me. Back soon.'
Rising Star's Busy Schedule
Olivia first joined Loose Women as a guest panellist in 2023 and has since become a regular fixture on the show alongside established presenters including Janet Street Porter and Coleen Nolan. Her television career has expanded significantly since her appearance on Love Island in 2017, where she reached the final with then-boyfriend Chris Hughes.
Earlier this year, ITV announced that Olivia would join the rotating roster of hosts on This Morning, describing it as a 'huge honour' when she appeared alongside Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley in June.
Beyond her television work, Olivia has recently secured a six-figure brand ambassador deal with River Island, sending fans into excitement on social media. The fashion retailer had been teasing her involvement for some time, capitalising on her reputation as a style influencer.
While the specific nature of Olivia's illness remains undisclosed, the incident highlights the demanding schedule faced by television personalities. Her openness about the health scare provides a rare glimpse behind the polished facade of daytime television.
Loose Women continues to air weekdays from 12:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX, though it remains unclear when Olivia Attwood will make her return to the famous orange sofa.
