Penny Lancaster, a familiar face on ITV’s Loose Women, has shed light on the dynamics that unfold off-camera amidst occasional “disagreements” with her fellow panellists. As the wife of Rod Stewart, Lancaster regularly contributes to the lively discussions on the show, having returned to the panel following a recent hiatus.
While the program often features spirited debates over contentious issues, Penny, 55, assures that any on-screen tensions are left in the studio, with no lingering animosity once the cameras stop rolling.
In an interview with Yours Magazine, she shared, “Disagreements on Loose Women are part of what makes it invigorating. The variety of perspectives keeps the show engaging and dynamic.”
She emphasized, “We don’t hold grudges; we acknowledge our differences and simply agree to disagree.”
Additionally, Penny has expressed gratitude towards some of her colleagues for their support and insights, which have significantly helped her navigate the challenges of menopause.
The former model’s new interview comes after reports suggested that some of the Loose Women stars do not get along behind the scenes.
More recently, showbiz agent Melanie Blake, claimed she had evidence from a WhatsApp group in which some co-stars spoke negatively about other panellists.
Despite the speculation, many of the show’s stars have denied there is any friction. Denise Welch, in particular, has been outspoken about the atmosphere on the programme.
Speaking previously to The Mirror, she said the cast are “very opinionated strong women”, adding: “Just because we disagree, doesn’t mean we’re in a feud, which drives me mad.”
She continued: “I have never and I will honestly say, hand on heart, in 23 years, I have never had an argument with anybody on that show.
“If we didn’t have discussions and debate, it would be a very boring show.”
Judi Love also told OK! Magazine that she “gets on with everyone”, adding: “We’ve built genuine friendships.”
“It’s always fun, always lively. The topics are wide-ranging. It’s a space where I can be myself – not just as a comedian, but as a woman, a mother and a voice for the community,” she added.
Regular panellist Coleen Nolan additionally told Bang Showbiz: “There’s no screaming matches behind the scenes, I think what happens is there is like a core beginning of the week group and a core end of the week group. So, Mondays and Tuesdays are normally the same panel as are our Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays.
“We don’t all socialise together. 24/7 We all live in different parts of the country. But when we’re at work, and whenever we happen to be lucky enough to socialise together, honestly, they’re just like my sisters. So I’ve got my sisters that I used to perform with and now I’ve got my Loose Women sisters is what it feels like.”
Loose Women airs weekdays from 12.30pm on ITV and ITVX.