ITV is making significant changes to its daytime schedule, impacting popular shows Lorraine and Loose Women. These adjustments are attributed to budget cuts and involve a reduction in the airing frequency and duration of episodes.
Schedule Changes for Lorraine and Loose Women
The last episode of Loose Women aired on March 6, marking the beginning of its extended absence from the screen. Kaye Adams announced the show’s temporary hiatus as part of ITV’s broader plan.
- New Seasonal Schedule: Both Lorraine and Loose Women will now follow a seasonal format, airing for only 30 weeks of the year.
- Episode Duration: Each episode will be cut from one hour to just 30 minutes, decreasing their total yearly airtime by over 70%.
Impact of the Cheltenham Festival
Loose Women was initially removed from the schedule to accommodate the Cheltenham Festival, which ran from March 10 to March 13, 2026. However, it will remain off-air until a yet-to-be-announced return date next month.
Similarly, Lorraine is also on a scheduled break and will return in April, although specific dates have not been confirmed. The show’s managing director, Kevin Lygo, has emphasized the importance of these shows in ITV’s programming strategy.
Statements from the Cast
Members of the Loose Women panel, including Coleen Nolan, expressed their gratitude for the show’s continuation. Nolan remarked that even though the program is changing, it remains vital for supporting women across different backgrounds.
Lorraine Kelly acknowledged the shift in her show’s format, reassuring fans of her eventual return. She noted the modifications to the schedule and extended her appreciation to viewers for their support.
Broader Implications of Budget Cuts
Kevin Lygo stated that these changes are intended to generate savings, which will be reinvested into other programming genres. He assured viewers that ITV remains committed to providing quality news and entertainment, maintaining a core presence in daytime television.
The decision to extend Good Morning Britain’s airing time to 9:30 AM was also made, as Lorraine now has a later start time. During Lorraine’s absence, Good Morning Britain will continue until 10 AM.
Overall, these significant schedule alterations mark a new chapter for ITV’s daytime programming, emphasizing both sustainability and the importance of its established shows.
