Lorraine Kelly has left fans concerned and emotional after revealing she will be absent from TV screens for seven weeks, in a heartfelt update shared with her 591k Instagram followers. The beloved Scottish TV presenter, 66, confirmed the news with an emotional message, thanking viewers for their ongoing support through a difficult period of health and significant changes to the show.
A Heartfelt Message to Fans
Lorraine, who was noticeably missing from Thursday and Friday’s Lorraine episodes, took to Instagram on Monday to reassure fans. “I’m feeling a whole lot better, but this has been a bad lurgy,” she said, looking makeup-free but in high spirits. “If you’re going through it yourself, you have my sympathy. It’s a tough one, but I am getting there.”
She confirmed her extended break was not due to health concerns, but because of recent changes to the show’s schedule. “We now do 30 weeks a year,” she explained, revealing that she won’t return for several weeks. “I will miss you, but I’ll be back soon. Thanks so much for sticking with me through all the changes. It means the world to me.”
Schedule Shake-Up Leaves Viewers Shocked
On March 6, viewers were left stunned when they learned Lorraine and Loose Women would be pulled off-air for several weeks as part of a major ITV schedule shake-up. The changes were confirmed following an announcement that Good Morning Britain would be extended, airing from 6 AM to 10 AM, pushing Lorraine and Loose Women off the weekday lineup.
Christine Lampard, who stood in for Lorraine, addressed viewers: “That’s all for today, Lorraine will be back in a few weeks’ time. Have a lovely weekend, we’ll see you soon!”
At the end of Loose Women‘s episode, Kaye Adams reminded viewers that it would be the last episode for a while. “It’s your last Loose Women for a few weeks, but we’ll be back next month! Until then, take care and have a fabulous weekend and Easter.”
Support Pours in from Celebrities and Fans
Fans flooded the comments section of Lorraine’s post, expressing their love and support during this challenging time. Strictly’s Amy Dowden shared her well wishes: “Sending all the love lovely lady @lorraine, missed you this morning xxxx.” Good Morning Britain’s Susanna Reid also sent a message of support: “Get well soon @lorrainekellysmith and loads of love.”
Doctor Amir Khan added: “We love you and hope you feel better xx,” and Kate Robbins chimed in: “Get well soon, you’re nearly there! #lurgyhatred!”
Lorraine’s absence follows a period of significant upheaval for ITV’s daytime lineup. Last May, it was announced that Lorraine’s show would be reduced by 30 minutes, running only from 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM. The shake-up has resulted in job losses, with Good Morning Britain now occupying Lorraine’s previous 9 AM to 10 AM slot for 22 weeks out of the year.
What’s Next for Lorraine?
Lorraine’s fans will have to wait a little longer to see her back on TV, but she reassured viewers that she would return to her usual schedule for 30 weeks a year, with a full lineup of exciting guests and segments awaiting them. Lorraine concluded her post with heartfelt thanks to her loyal audience: “Thanks so much for sticking with me, and I can’t wait to see you when I’m back on air.”
The emotional update highlights just how much Lorraine’s audience values her presence on their screens, and with her health improving, it won’t be long before she’s back in action, bringing her unique charm and warmth to the show.
Wishing Lorraine a speedy recovery! Fans are eagerly awaiting her return and can’t wait for the next chapter of Lorraine.
