Loose Women star Linda Robson has expressed her fears over the future of the ITV panel show amid major budget cuts. The 67-year-old regular panelist admitted she hopes bosses will reconsider the proposals, which could see the show axed for half the year from January.
The cuts, aimed at saving millions, will mean no more A-list guests or live audiences. Robson said she is trying to 'stay positive' but acknowledged the impact on viewers, particularly older people who look forward to the daily programme. She added that many co-stars have been with the show for 25 years and hopes the audience can return in the new year.
ITV is also slashing budgets for Good Morning Britain, Lorraine, and This Morning, with more than 220 of 440 staff facing redundancy. Robson described the team as 'like a family' and said everyone is worried. Co-star Nadia Sawalha noted that panelists are self-employed, meaning contracts are not guaranteed.
Janet Street-Porter, however, believes older panelists are safe as they appeal to the target audience. She suggested younger or less experienced stars might be at risk of losing their jobs.
