Entertainment
Gloria Hunniford Discusses Grief and Health on ‘Loose Women’
Gloria Hunniford has returned to the panel of ‘Loose Women‘ on Monday, October 7, following a hiatus due to the passing of her husband, Stephen Way. During her appearance, she addressed concerns regarding her health, particularly her noticeable weight loss, which has sparked concern among viewers and fans.
Hunniford, aged 84, spoke candidly to her co-hosts, including Charlene White and Denise Welch, about coping with the loss and its impact on her physical health. White acknowledged Hunniford’s altered appearance, noting, “Obviously grief presents itself in different ways and it can do so physically as well.”
In response, Hunniford explained the toll her husband’s illness and subsequent death had taken on her, saying, “When your partner’s ill, like the anxiety and the worry and all of that, of course, I’ve lost weight because you don’t eat properly; you’re always thinking of the other person.” She reassured her colleagues and the audience by stating, “But I am fine, thank you very much indeed.”
Reflecting on her loss, Hunniford shared the profound effect Stephen Way’s passing has had on her life. She depicted Way as a “gentleman and a giant of a man,” highlighting his kind and generous nature, as well as his endearing sense of humour, which persisted until the end. “We had a tremendously happy 25-year marriage and did so many beautiful and exciting things together that I will always cherish,” she added.
The family had previously released a statement in August announcing Way’s death, which described him as having “heroically fought his illness” with tenacity and positivity. In recapping his character, Hunniford further expressed, “A bright shining light has dimmed, and he shall be missed at every turn.”
Viewers of ‘Loose Women’ and fans have reached out with sympathy and support for Hunniford during this difficult time. One fan expressed condolences on social media, lamenting the visible impact of her grief: “Sadly how losing her husband has taken its toll on Gloria, bless her… she’s lost a lot of weight.”