Former Loose Women panellist Sherrie Hewson has shared a hilarious behind-the-scenes story about her time on the popular ITV daytime show, revealing she was once kicked under the table by co-star Coleen Nolan during a live broadcast.
Under-the-Table Banter
The 75-year-old actress, who was a mainstay on the panel from 2003 to 2017, explained that the incident occurred just a few months ago when she made a return appearance. Hewson recalled making a comment she describes as 'slightly outrageous', though she can no longer remember the exact remark that prompted Nolan's swift physical response.
'I went on Loose Women a few months ago and I said something slightly outrageous,' Hewson told The Sun. 'Coleen kicked me under the table. I said, on air: "Don't kick me", and she replied: "But I like to kick you!"'
Rather than taking offence, Hewson sees this kind of exchange as emblematic of the show's best dynamics. She described it as 'the kind of banter we need' and praised the atmosphere where panellists can 'have a bit of a go at each other' without any lasting hard feelings.
A Different Era for Daytime TV
Reflecting on her early years on the programme, Hewson noted a significant shift in what's considered acceptable on air. She claimed that during her initial tenure, nothing used to be off-limits and she couldn't recall anyone being offended by what was said or done.
The actress openly admitted to having 'awful ding-dongs' with fellow panellist Janet Street-Porter, during which she would frequently tell her to 'shut up' because she believed Street-Porter was 'talking rubbish'. Hewson added with humour that she now recognises 'maybe I was too'.
Despite these heated exchanges, Hewson insisted they would always end up laughing about it afterwards, with both finding the confrontations 'very funny'. She emphasised the importance of being able to agree to disagree, stating that everyone has different opinions and should feel free to express them.
Fighting for Loose Women's Future
Hewson's nostalgic reflections come amid her vocal criticism of recent ITV decisions affecting the show she clearly holds dear. The broadcaster has announced that from January, Loose Women will air for just 30 weeks per year instead of running year-round, as part of sweeping budget cuts.
The actress, who now stars in Hollyoaks, didn't mince words when describing the decision, branding it 'cruel'. She expressed particular concern for the show's older and more vulnerable viewers, warning that the reduction would leave many without what she describes as a vital 'lifeline'.
Drawing from her experience volunteering in care homes, Hewson explained she has witnessed firsthand how much the programme means to patients, including those with dementia. 'Watching Loose Women,' she explained, 'can feel like being part of a conversation and, for some, even provide a reason to live.'
She elaborated further: 'Women of all ages, those up to 95 down to younger women at home with young children, it's like therapy to them. Some people are lonely, and it is a lifeline for them, the only discussion they may actually be part of during the day.'
Hewson also criticised ITV for generally reducing programming aimed at older audiences, pointing out the irony that viewers over 55 watch more TV than any other age group, yet are frequently overlooked by broadcasters.
Broader Changes at ITV
The cuts affecting Loose Women are part of broader changes across ITV's daytime schedule. Other popular shows including Good Morning Britain and Lorraine are also facing adjustments.
Good Morning Britain will extend by an extra half-hour, while Lorraine's slot will be reduced from one hour to just 30 minutes. Similar to Loose Women, Lorraine will now broadcast for only 30 weeks annually.
Kevin Lygo, Managing Director of ITV's Media and Entertainment Division, defended the changes, stating: 'Daytime is a really important part of what we do. These scheduling and production changes will enable us to continue to deliver a schedule providing viewers with the news, debate and discussion they love.'
According to industry insiders, the budget reductions will also result in practical changes for Loose Women. The show is expected to move to a smaller studio in London's Celebro from its current White City location, with one source describing the new space as a 'broom cupboard'.
Additionally, the revamped format will reportedly no longer feature A-list guests in the studio, instead focusing solely on the panel debating newsworthy topics. Despite these changes, ITV has expressed commitment to maintaining the show's rotational panel format and has shown particular interest in nurturing new host Olivia Attwood.
Though she left the regular panel in 2016, Sherrie Hewson's passionate defence of Loose Women demonstrates her enduring connection to the programme that was such a significant part of her career for nearly fifteen years.
