Archive April 18, 2025

Loose Women’s Judi Love furiously defends co-star amid ‘difference of opinions’ on show

Hilarious comedian and presenter Judi Love puts those Loose Women ‘feud’ rumours firmly to bed as she opens up on comedy and friendship and an element of ‘guilt’ as a single mum

Comedian and presenter Judi Love talks Loose Women, comedy and being a single mum

Since bursting onto our screens with her infectious energy and humour, Judi Love has become one of TV’s most beloved personalities. Best known for her role on ITV ’s long-running panel show Loose Women, the comedian, actress and presenter has carved out a unique space for herself in British entertainment.

Judi, 44, is as relatable as she is razor-sharp, and in an exclusive chat with OK!, she opens up about life behind the Loose Women desk, the “sisterhood” that keeps it all together and the truth behind those ‘feud’ rumours. Insisting she “gets on with everyone”, she tells us, “We’ve built genuine friendships.”

READ MORE: Loose Women’s Frankie Bridge has fans rushing to River Island for ‘chic’ dress under £70

Judi Love with her Loose women in studio
Judi loves being a Loose Women, ‘different opinions’ included
Judi Love
The star says the show’s All-Black panel was one of her highlights(Image: PR HANDOUT)

But she does concede that the nature of the show coupled with the strong personalities on the panel means the odd clash isn’t unheard of. “Of course we all have different opinions, that’s the beauty of it. But everything is always done with respect,” she says firmly. “A different opinion doesn’t mean an argument. It’s a conversation.”

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In recent weeks, whispers of tension behind the scenes have made headlines. Most notably, newcomer Olivia Attwood Dack – known for her appearance on Love Island and her no-nonsense persona – is reported to have ruffled feathers by bringing her own glam team on set.

But Judi isn’t here for the drama. “Do people ask the same thing when it’s Loose Men?” she quips. “Us girls are good. If you’ve got your own make-up team, it’s not a bad reflection of the team in-house – it’s just someone else is used to your face. That should be looked at as a positive and how inclusive the show and the team are to make sure people are comfortable.”

Judi’s own approach to pre-show prep is more low-key, not that she feels any less glam. “We slay all the time!” she says. “I get my make-up done, I walk out and I’m slaying. Period!”

A single mother-of-two and former social worker, Judi’s journey has been anything but conventional. She made her comedy debut in 2011 with a hilariously honest routine about caring for her late mother.

Since then, she’s graced stages up and down the country with her bold, observational style. Her break-out moment came in 2020 when she joined Loose Women as part of the show’s first ever all-Black panel – a moment Judi recalls with deep pride. “It was so powerful to be part of something that hadn’t been done before,” she says. “Now, five years on, I’m still here – that says it all, doesn’t it?”

Judi says her closest bonds are with co-stars Nadia Sawalha, Charlene White, Kaye Adams, Brenda Edwards and Jane Moore – women she regularly catches up with outside the studio, too.

Judi Love and Brenda Edwards
Panellist Brenda Edwards is a close friend(Image: Instagram)
Judi Love boxing in gym
Reflecting on growing up in Hackney, Judi says there was always laughter and love

Describing her time on Loose Women as nothing short of “fantastic”, she credits its diversity and the meaningful conversations at its core. “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 explains.

Throughout her time there, Judi has been involved in a number of campaigns, including Facing It Together, which marked the show’s 25th anniversary and shone a light on domestic abuse. “It’s so important that women like us, who are visible and vocal, speak out on issues that matter,” she says. “No one should feel ashamed or alone.”

Her most memorable moment? “Definitely the all-Black panel. That will always be iconic,” she says. “But raising money for charity and connecting with the audience in real time for 25 hours was unforgettable, too. It’s about support and using our platform for good.”

Away from the glitz of the TV studio, Judi is a doting mum and fiercely proud single parent. “My kids are the ones who keep me grounded,” she says. “I could be off interviewing a Hollywood star but the moment I step through the door it’s, ‘Mum, what’s for dinner?’ It’s beautiful – I love it.”

Balancing her busy career with motherhood isn’t always easy, but Judi approaches it with her signature warmth and wisdom. “I try to do it with love and grace,” she tells us. “There’s a lot of parent guilt, especially as a single mum, but I remind myself I’m setting an example. My children are growing up seeing powerful women all around them. That’s a gift.”

Judi Love on Loose Women
Judi’s fans love her funny, straight-talking approach to a debate(Image: ITV)

Judi is keenly aware of the challenges young people face in today’s world, particularly with social media. “You have to have the conversations,” she says. “Whether it’s with your own kids, nieces or nephews – we need to be aware of the pressures they’re under and offer support.”

Born and raised in Hackney, Judi credits her upbringing for her values, humour and resilience. “There was always laughter, always love,” she says. “I grew up in the 80s – it was a community. It was simple, and that definitely grounded me.”

That sense of community is something she’s found again on Loose Women, especially with the launch of the show’s brand new podcast. “The podcast has been a great addition,” she says. “It gives us a chance to delve deeper. We get questions from the audience and we talk in a more intimate setting. It’s like inviting the viewers into our group chat.”

With guests like Gloria Hunniford and more exciting topics on the horizon, the Loose Women podcast is already creating a buzz among fans. “We always say the viewers are our fifth panellist, and this is our way of giving them more of us,” Judi explains.

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When asked what she wishes more people understood about being a Black woman in entertainment, Judi answers candidly, “That we still have to ask that question, that says it all, doesn’t it? Everyone wants to be seen, represented and treated equally.”

And while she recognises that the industry has made strides, she’s also clear that there’s still a lot of work to be done. “We live in a society where being different can still be an issue – whether it’s your race, your size, your age. But finding allyship, building connections, that’s what makes the real difference.”

Thomas equals course record to lead RBC Heritage

Images courtesy of Getty

RBC Heritage first-round leaderboard

-10 J Thomas (US), -7 R Henley (US), S Scheffler (US), -6 W Clark (US)

Other notables: -5 M Fitzpatrick (Eng), -4 J Rose (Eng), and T Fleetwood (Eng).

Justin Thomas set a course record by leading by three shots after the RBC Heritage first round.

At Harbour Town Golf Links in South Carolina, Thomas birdied 11 holes for a 10-under-par 61.

The 31-year-old American leads compatriots Russell Henley and world number one Scottie Scheffler in the pursuit of their first victories since taking home his second major at the US PGA Championship in 2022.

After posting a first-round score of 66, former US Open champion Wyndham Clark is one shot further back, while Matt Fitzpatrick is in a group of five under.

Justin Rose, who lost to Rory McIlroy in a play-off at the Masters, is tied for 10th after hitting 67 in his first round.

Thomas set the tone with six birdies on the front nine, before recovering from a bogey on the 10th with five birdies in six holes on the back nine.

Thomas remarked, “I feel like I didn’t do anything crazy.”

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Molly Mae’s go-to support cushion is available for £5.17 with little-known deal stack

In a recent YouTube video, Molly-Mae raving about the Dunelm pillow. Here’s where you can buy it.

Molly Mae raved about Dunelm’s teddy V-shaped cushion in a recent YouTube upload(Image: Molly-Mae/YouTube)

This most recent deal is ideal for anyone who wants comfort for less while catching up on our favorite Netflix series or getting stuck into a good book.

New members who sign up today (18 April) can effectively purchase a top-rated Dunelm teddy v-shape cushion, which Molly-Mae Hague adores, for £5.17 instead of £22. The cushion has decreased from £20.17 for current TopCashback members, making it even more advantageous for them.

There is still time to make a deal if you don’t get it today. New TopCashback and Dunelm customers can purchase the cushion for £6.63 after cashback starting on April 19. It costs £6.82 for new TopCash users who are already Dunelm shoppers.

For April showers, a Columbia jacket that folds down to fit in your handbag is ideal.

READ MORE: Amazon is currently 30% off on Skechers trainers that have “great support for plantar fasciitis.”

Molly Mae said in a recent YouTube video that she “can’t sleep without.” She said, “Sleep has never been better since this pregnancy pillow came into my life.” There are many luxurious ones out there, but this one from Dunelm is the only one that hits like this.

Teddy V-Shape Cushion
The cushion features an ultra-soft touch texture(Image: Dunelm)

It’s the kind of cushion you’ll want to take from bed to sofa and back again because of its soft, squishy feel and supportive shape. It doubles as a nursing pillow for extra comfort and support both during and after pregnancy, as Molly-Mae mentioned.

The teddy V-shape cushion is already popular with home lovers, and sales increased by 40% this week. This pillow is the best I’ve ever owned, according to one Dunelm customer! No stiff neck on my back or side; warm and comforting.

I haven’t had the item in a few weeks, but I’m very pleased, said a second chime in. It feels so cozy and warm inside. This is the best brand I’ve ever owned, despite the fact that I’ve had other brands. I’m thinking about getting some for downstairs.

However, not everyone is as impressed as someone who complains that “My Teddy Bear V pillow needs more filling in it; it’s quite flat.” This Silentnight V-shaped pillow has shredded memory foam that molds to your shape while still allowing air to circulate freely, if this worries you.

However, a content Dunelm customer responded, “It’s a cozy cuddle cushion.” It really seems to help me when I used it as a front cuddler for anxiety. It is incredibly soft.

This TopCashback deal is a great opportunity if you want to purchase this celebrity-approved cushion for less. For more information on how to get a discount, see the following.

Continue reading the article.

How to make a Dunelm sign-up bonus and additional cashback claim?

    New TopCashback members must register using this link to receive the new member bonus.

  • Click “Get Cashback Now” when you search for Dunelm.
  • As usual, you can shop and check out.
  • Then, your TopCashback account will track your purchases and show up in your TopCashback account.

How could Liverpool replace Alexander-Arnold?

Real Madrid’s departure for Trent Alexander-Arnold is getting closer, so Liverpool needs to start considering how to replace him.

Since making his Reds debut in 2016, the 26-year-old right-back has won everything, including the Premier League and Champions League.

Liverpool’s manager Arne Slot still claims nothing has been resolved, but it’s fair to say that if he leaves, there would be a sizable gap at right-back.

What has lost at Liverpool?

Alexander-Arnold’s creative numbers are growing year after year, and he has established himself as a playmaking right-back.

The English international’s talents were used in a variety of ways under Jurgen Klopp.

He began his professional career as an all-action right-back working with Andy Robertson, his full-back partner on the other flank.

Alexander-Arnold has continued to do this since Arne Slot took over as manager, frequently as a way to create opportunities for Mohamed Salah on the right wing.

The England international has consistently been a valuable asset to Liverpool, particularly when it comes to creating chances and playing out of the back.

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Alexander-Arnold has always had questions about his defense.

Bradley might be able to rise.

Since making the first team, Conor Bradley has been Alexander-Arnold’s understudy. The Northern Ireland international will undoubtedly be involved in the discussions surrounding the right-back replacement.

Bradley has struggled to maintain consistency in this season’s starting XI, playing just over 1, 000 games. Given that he and Alexander-Arnold are competing for spots, he has had to work hard enough to get game time, but recurring, long-term injuries have also been a hindrance.

Bradley has always shown great promise whenever he has played, despite having a significantly different profile at full-back than Alexander-Arnold.

The 21-year-old enjoys physical duels and is eager to do defensive work, which is in line with Slot’s desire for Liverpool players to maintain a strong counter-press.

A touchmap for Conor Bradley in the 2024-25 season, showing he has had 1010 touches of the ball

Bradley averaged 7.62 progressive receptions per game in 750 league minutes last year, which means he was receiving the ball at least seven times in positions closer to the opposition goal.

Who might Liverpool acquire?

Strasbourg’s Guela Doue

Guela Doue, who is 27 games into his second full season of senior league football, is already making waves at Strasbourg under the direction of 40-year-old former Hull manager Liam Rosenior.

Since moving to Strasbourg, Doue has shown his versatility after breaking ground in Rennes in the 2023-2019 season. The 22-year-old Ivory Coast international is a right-back who is capable of being a wide center-back in a three or a right-wing-back.

A graphic showing Guela Doue's progressive carries of the ball

The versatile defender has only been surpassed at Strasbourg by Diego Moreira in terms of the average carries with the ball this season.

Similar to Alexander-Arnold, Doue enjoys receiving the ball deeper in his own half before moving the ball further up the pitch with long forward passes to his striker or winger.

Anton Gaaei (Ajax)

Anton Gaaei, who is now Francesco Farioli’s “Danish Beckham,” has quickly established himself as the team’s first-choice right-back this campaign.

The 21-year-old joined Ajax after three seasons with Viborg in the Danish Superliga, where he has made 21 Eredivisie appearances this season.

The variety and quality of Gaaei’s crossing immediately appeal. With his right boot, he can transfer a lot of power to the ball from deeper areas or to the byline and also cut back into the box. His signature is a diagonal low cross that he strikes diagonally past defenders to connect with his team-mates as they pass.

A graphic showing Anton Gaaei's passing into the box, showing he provided four assists and 19 chances created in 2024-25

Gaaei continues to improve on the defensive end of his game, which is helped by his excellent quickness in tracking back and making effective off-ball runs beyond his winger.

The young Dane, who is also given the task of setting up set-piece play, benefits from Ajax’s dominant play, which produces about five crosses per match.

Porto’s Martim Fernandes

Martim Fernandes, who has impressed many since joining Porto’s first team this year, is the youngest player of the three and arguably the one with the greatest potential.

Fernandes, who is only 19 years old, is already a key creative force in the side and has five assists in his 21 Liga Portugal appearances.

He enjoys starting and is a great ball-carrier, skilled at getting into dangerous zones inside the opposition’s six-yard box, like Alexander-Arnold.

Given his age, it’s no wonder he averages an expected assists (xA) of 0.31 in the Portuguese top flight, which is incredibly impressive.

A graphic showing Martim Fernandes created 24 chances and provided five assists in 2024-25

The Porto number 52 can maneuver in tight spaces to curl a cross into the box, much like Alexander-Arnold does, and exhibits promising movement when underlapping or overlapping to cross.

Fernandes has averaged a remarkable 3.61 crosses per match this term in Liga Portugal.

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