Linda Robson has expressed concerns over the future of Loose Women as ITV implements significant budget cuts across its daytime programming. The 67-year-old actress and panellist told reporters she is “praying” the show will not be cancelled amid savings measures that will see hundreds of jobs lost.
ITV Studios, which produces Loose Women, Good Morning Britain, Lorraine and This Morning, is cutting more than half of its 440-strong workforce. The panel show will be off-air for half the year from January, and reports suggest A-list guests and the live studio audience will be scrapped. ITV has not confirmed the audience removal.
Robson, who has been on the show for 20 years, said everyone is “rallying together” but admitted it is “very sad” if guests can no longer appear. “We’re all like a family,” she added. “Everyone's worried about the show.” Co-presenter Nadia Sawalha previously noted that panellists are self-employed and face contract uncertainty.
Since its launch in 1999, Loose Women has featured rotating hosts debating current affairs and welcomed high-profile guests such as Naomi Campbell and Janet Jackson. Robson, known for her role in Birds of a Feather, joked about her “loose mouth” and being constantly told not to swear on air.
