Why is Loose Women not on today?
Loose Women is not airing today due to ITV’s decision to adjust its programming schedule for the 2026 Cheltenham Festival. This annual horse racing event is a significant occasion in the UK, prompting the network to prioritize its coverage over regular daytime shows.
The Cheltenham Festival is scheduled to run from March 10 to March 13, 2026, which has led to the temporary removal of Loose Women from the ITV lineup. Kaye Adams, one of the show’s hosts, confirmed this break on March 6, 2026, stating, “There is a reason to get tearful, it’s your last Loose Women for a few weeks.” The show typically airs on weekdays at 12.30pm, making this change particularly noticeable for its regular viewers.
In addition to Loose Women, ITV’s schedule changes also impact other popular shows like Lorraine and This Morning, reflecting a broader shift in programming strategy. ITV announced these changes in May 2025, indicating a move towards a more seasonal approach to its daytime content.
Starting in 2026, Loose Women will operate on a 30-week seasonal schedule, a reduction from its previous format. Furthermore, episodes will now be limited to a 30-minute runtime instead of the hour-long shows that fans have come to expect. This adjustment aims to streamline programming and enhance viewer engagement.
Kevin Lygo, ITV’s Director of Television, emphasized the importance of daytime programming, stating, “Daytime has been a core element of ITV’s schedule for over 40 years and these changes will set ITV up to continue to bring viewers award-winning news, views and discussion as we enter our eighth decade.” This statement highlights ITV’s commitment to maintaining its relevance in a competitive broadcasting landscape.
Despite the changes, viewers can look forward to the return of Loose Women in April 2026. Kaye Adams reassured fans, saying, “We will be back next month. Until then, take care, have a fabulous weekend and Easter, and we’ll see you very soon!” This promise of a return provides some comfort to those who enjoy the show’s discussions and guest appearances.
As ITV navigates these programming changes, the impact on audience engagement and viewership remains to be seen. The network’s strategy reflects a response to evolving viewer preferences and the need to adapt to significant events like the Cheltenham Festival. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further adjustments to the schedule beyond this month.