A source has claimed that older Loose Women panel members are vowing to “fight” against the younger stars as the network has announced a huge shake-up

The Loose Women cast are worried about their futures on the show (Image: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)

The senior members of the Loose Women panel are reportedly ready to “fight” against their younger counterparts amidst a significant reshuffle at ITV, which will result in a major revamp of their daytime schedule, impacting various shows. Earlier this week, the network announced that both Loose Women and Lorraine Kelly’s eponymous show will have their airtime reduced to just 30 weeks per year, as opposed to being broadcast continuously. Despite a significant drop in viewership for This Morning, the programme will remain unaffected.

Lorraine’s show has also taken a hit, with its duration cut to half an hour instead of an hour, as Good Morning Britain has been extended by an additional 30 minutes. However, tensions at Loose are said to be at an all-time high, with panellists feeling as if they’re on probation. It’s alleged that stars of the midday show, including Christine Lampard and Coleen Nolan, were not informed of the changes until they were publicly announced. Reports suggest that the older women on the panel, who have been there since its inception 25 years ago, believe they’ll be competing against “PR friendly” younger team members, including Frankie Bridge, Olivia Attwood and TikToker GK Barry.

Loose Women brought in a number of younger presenters (Image: ITV)

An insider revealed to The Sun: “They feel like often all the negative criticism is levelled at them, the odd ‘out of touch’ comment, whereas with the new panellists such as Liv and Grace, there is a buzz around them because they have that different point of view.”, reports the Mirror.

The source continued: “Execs have also proudly pro-claimed how the youngsters have brought with them a much-needed new audience – and now all of a sudden the older panellists feel like they are going to have to fight for their places against these shiny teachers’ pets. It’s now five months or so for them to prove their worth and sing for their supper.”

However, an insider from the network insisted that the more experienced members of the Loose Women panel are “highly valued and celebrated”. They clarified that despite rumours of the panel “fighting” for airtime, the Loose Women podcast and Over 60 and Over 70s specials will “keep everyone busy.”

Loose Women and Lorraine were hit with huge cuts from ITV (Image: ITV)

It has been suggested that regular anchors, including Christine, Kaye Adams, Ruth Langsford, and Charlene White, remain secure in their roles, yet there is concern that management might scrutinise their social media activity, episode ratings, and audience polling data meticulously.

Rumours are swirling that the Loose Women panel are under pressure, fearing they’ll need to ‘audition’ to keep their seats as tensions mount with each trying to prove who’s the boldest and most outspoken.