Given the recent troubles with ITV’s schedule, and the controversy surrounding leading presenter Philip Schofield, could Loose Men fill the void, at least of the time being? Could a version of it work alongside or just before Loose Women?
ITV viewers are rallying behind the spin-off show “Loose Men” and urging its permanent inclusion on television, with some even claiming it surpasses the original “Loose Women.”
In the latest episode, the panel consisted of Paul Sinha from The Chase, Vernon Kay, boxer Tommy Fury, and Martin Kemp. These men engaged in discussions covering a diverse range of topics, including erectile dysfunction, the appropriate timing for proposing marriage, and even had Tommy sharing some boxing tips with the panel.
The question arises: Why did ITV introduce the “Loose Men” spin-off? “Loose Men” first made its debut in November 2020, coinciding with International Men’s Day. On that occasion, the panel comprised JLS singer Marvin Humes, comedian Iain Stirling, Boyzone star Ronan Keating, and radio host Roman Kemp.
Since then, the spin-off has returned sporadically for a series of episodes, either to commemorate Mental Health Awareness Week or International Men’s Day. Notable guests such as Strictly Come Dancing professional Johannes Radebe, actor Larry Lamb, and former rugby player Mike Tindall have tackled various challenging subjects during these lunchtime discussions.
Viewers have heaped praise upon “Loose Men” and are advocating for its permanent inclusion in the ITV schedule.
One enthusiastic viewer remarked, “Omg this ‘Loose Men’ is actually so much better than ‘Loose Women’.” Another expressed their delight, stating, “I love seeing #LooseMen presenting #LooseWomen, especially some of my favorite male celebrities. It’s so important for men to open up too! ‘Loose Men’ should become a monthly thing.”
In agreement, another viewer shared, “What an absolute joy watching ‘Loose Men.’ It’s great to hear the other side… Martin Kemp, I’m completely aligned with you. The ’80s was the pinnacle of music and style. I was a skinhead back then and a big SKA fan, but I loved your band and others. Total quality xx.”
A passionate fan urged the show to become a regular fixture, exclaiming, “Petition to make #LooseMen a permanent thing.” Numerous others voiced their support on Twitter, emphasizing the importance of tackling taboo and potentially embarrassing topics, and appealed to ITV to air the show on a weekly basis, as it is just as crucial as “Loose Women.”