Loose Women presenter Ruth Langsford is boldly stepping into 2026, declaring it her year for a vibrant new chapter following the painful breakdown of her marriage to broadcaster Eamonn Holmes.
A Fresh Start After Heartbreak
Ruth Langsford, 65, is determined to put a difficult period behind her and embrace new opportunities, with friends revealing she is actively open to finding love again. The TV star, who was married to former Good Morning Britain host Eamonn Holmes for 14 years after a 27-year relationship, finalised her divorce plans in May 2024.
A close source to the star shared: "This is a new beginning. She'll be divorced, she's got a new book coming out and she's feeling fabulous. And she's looking for love, so it's definitely a new start. 2026 is going to be her year."
"Old School" Dating and Personal Overhaul
When it comes to her search for a new partner, Ruth has a clear idea of what she wants and how she plans to find it. She is seeking someone positive, fun, and with a great sense of humour, a stark contrast to any grumpiness. "Someone fun who makes her laugh is really important," the insider explained.
However, don't expect to see her on exclusive celebrity dating apps. Ruth is taking an "old school" approach to romance. "It's through friends, going out and being social," the source said. "She's doing it the old way, where you meet someone in a bar or restaurant, or through mates. She's keeping her eye out."
This search for love is part of a broader mission to revitalise her life. The pal added: "She is 100% trying to make 2026 her year and is living life to the full. She's put her heart and soul into her career and in 2026 is going to have more fun in her personal life."
Healing, Fitness, and a Forthcoming Memoir
The journey to this point of optimism has required significant emotional work. Ruth has been candid about seeking professional counselling to navigate the split. "I started counselling when Eamonn and I separated, and I'm still having it," she told Woman & Home. "It is very powerful and very useful. It gives me tools to deal with things."
She has also focused on her physical wellbeing, taking up Pilates to feel her best at 65. Alongside her fitness regime and social life, a major project for the new year is the release of her debut memoir, Feeling Fabulous, scheduled for February.
Ruth explained her reason for writing the book: "I'm at a certain age now and at a certain stage in my life, and the stories in here are just reflections." She promised it would include "heart-wrenching" parts, detailing real events from her life and the lessons learned.
Throughout this transition, Ruth has leaned on a strong support network, including fellow Loose Women panellist and close friend Coleen Nolan. "They just tell her she can achieve anything and that age is just a number," the source said.
While Eamonn Holmes has moved on with a new partner, marriage counsellor Katie Alexander, 43, Ruth is firmly focused on her own future. Summing up her resilient spirit, she recently stated: "Before, I saw darkness... But now the fear [has] gone. Because what do you do? Do you crumble? Do you lay down and die? Oh no, not I. I will survive."
