This afternoon's episode of Loose Women was a rollercoaster, starting off with a bit of mayhem as the show went live missing one of its stars. The ITV chat show had to adapt quickly when Nadia Sawalha didn't make it on time for the opening.
Christine Lampard, married to football icon Frank Lampard, took the reins, with just Kelly Brook and Myleene Klass by her side announcing that Nadia had been "running late". The panelist did eventually make a grand entrance, cycling onto the set, much to the amusement of everyone.
Despite the initial confusion for those tuning in, it turned out Nadia's quirky arrival was all part of the act. She hopped off her bike, helmet still on, and quipped to the audience: "I was so frightened I was going to hurt the front row."
Christine praised her efforts, saying: "You were brilliant." But Nadia, wasn't willing to accept her compliment as she retorted: "Shut up, I was so embarrassing."
The mood took a sombre turn later in the show when the panel received heartbreaking news during the broadcast. Linda Nolan, a cherished member of the Loose Women family, has died following a battle with cancer, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Fighting back tears, Christine delivered the devastating update post-break, announcing: "Some very sad news for you now, Linda Nolan, Coleen's sister who was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2017, has died at the age of 65."
She added, with evident emotion: "In a statement just released, it is with profound sadness that we announced the passing of Linda Nolan. She passed peacefully with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments."
Concluding her poigninat Tribute, Christine wrapped up: "Linda's legacy extends beyond her incredible achievement in music and entertainment, she was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others, rest in peace Linda, you will be deeply missed."
The entire panel were visibly moved by the sad news. Despite knowing Linda's death was most likely imminent, Nadia spoke about the shock of Linda's passing and the whole family's journey.
She said: "Nothing prepares you for when the light goes out and when the light goes out that is the most awful shock and they've been through so much as a family." Nadia finished up with: "Sending all of our love."
In a statement given to the Mirror, agent Dermot McNamara confirmed Linda's death, saying: "It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.
"She passed at around 10:20am at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on the MCEW Ward. The family said the hospital couldn't do enough, they were tireless."
