Janet Street-Porter has firmly denied rumours that ITV is axing Loose Women’s older panellists, despite sweeping cost-cutting measures across the network.
“There Are No Plans to Get Rid of the Older Women”
Speaking to Bella magazine, the 78-year-old journalist made it clear that seasoned Loose Women stars like herself, Ruth Langsford (65), and Gloria Hunniford (85) remain integral to the daytime talk show.
“There are no plans to get rid of the older women, despite what some people have said,” Janet declared.
“In fact, the reverse is true. ITV actually put out a statement saying we are the valued members of the show because the audience totally relate to us.”
Budget Cuts, Influencer Recruits, and Viewer Concerns
ITV recently announced significant restructuring, including over 220 job cuts and a reduction in Loose Women’s runtime from 52 weeks a year to 30, starting in 2026.
To rejuvenate its daytime offerings, ITV has also brought in younger faces like TikTok star GK Barry (Grace Keeling, 25) and former Love Island contestant Olivia Attwood (34).
However, some ex-panellists are skeptical. Carol McGiffin (65), who left the show in 2023, criticised ITV’s strategy during a recent appearance on Dan Wootton’s Outspoken podcast.
“A lot of young people never watch television,” Carol said. “The idea that bringing on influencers will make them suddenly tune in to daytime TV is just ridiculous.”
She added:
“They tell viewers what they want instead of listening. Maybe the shows aren’t working because they’re just… not very good anymore.”
Why
Loose Women
Still Matters
Janet pushed back against that narrative, arguing that the show thrives because it tackles real issues in a way viewers can trust.
“Loose Women has become a programme that’s trusted by a lot of women. We talk about things that affect them—female health, domestic violence, how politicians ignore working women—and we do it with humour.”
“We don’t take ourselves too seriously,” she added. “That’s why people keep watching.”
ITV’s Wider Daytime Shake-Up
Alongside changes to Loose Women, ITV has confirmed that Lorraine will also move to a 30-week seasonal model, and more programmes will be produced from central London starting next year.
Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Managing Director of Media and Entertainment, said:
“Daytime has been a core element of ITV’s schedule for over 40 years. These changes will allow us to keep delivering award-winning news, views, and conversation as we look toward the future.”
While ITV navigates financial pressures and shifting viewer habits, Janet Street-Porter is standing her ground—and proving that experience, authenticity, and a bit of humour still matter on daytime TV.
