On January 6, 2026, viewers of ITV’s popular daytime talk show Loose Women were treated to a heartfelt and revealing update from one of the show’s beloved panelists, Brenda Edwards. The episode, hosted by Christine Lampard and featuring Coleen Nolan and Gloria Hunniford, took a personal turn as Brenda shared the story of her first Christmas with her new boyfriend—a milestone that marked a significant shift in her life and holiday traditions.
For many, the festive season is a time of joy and family gatherings, but for Brenda, Christmas has long been tinged with sadness. Having lost both parents during the holiday period, she admitted that celebrating Christmas had always been emotionally difficult. As Christine Lampard gently acknowledged on air, “It’s historically been an emotional time for you.” According to Express, this year was different. Brenda recounted how she decided to embrace the season fully, putting up Christmas lights and decorations for the very first time in her home. “I made an effort with Christmas this year and I put a few lights up and a few Christmassy things in the living room. I’ve never put anything up,” Brenda explained, her voice carrying both pride and a hint of surprise at her newfound festive spirit.
The catalyst for this change? Her new relationship, which has been blossoming quietly over the past year. Brenda invited her boyfriend to spend Christmas with her and her family, a move that signaled not only the seriousness of their bond but also her readiness to create new memories. “I invited my partner to spend a couple of days with us and it was lovely. [I] just wanted to have some festive spirit and fun,” Brenda said, as reported by Belfast Live. The decision to include her partner in such an intimate family gathering was not taken lightly, especially given the emotional weight the season holds for her. But the experience, it seems, was nothing short of transformative.
Brenda’s boyfriend met her brother and two aunties during the holiday—a “very big occasion,” as she described it. The family dynamic played out in real time: “He’s really sweet. He offered to chop up the vegetables and it was lovely. We were cooking together... I’m keeping him,” Brenda said, laughter and affection in her words. Auntie Pam was immediately won over, while auntie Betty, ever the cautious one, remained “a bit more reserved.” Still, the introduction went off without a hitch, and Brenda’s smile throughout the segment spoke volumes about her happiness.
The couple’s relationship, though just a year old, has already been marked by several important firsts. Brenda shared, “I think with every relationship there’s firsts, but I seem to have been conquering them quite a lot. It’s only been a year and there’s been quite a few firsts.” One of the highlights was a birthday trip to Barbados, a spontaneous adventure that Brenda invited her partner on after only four months together. “It was my birthday, I was like, ‘I want a lovely birthday present. I’m going away to Barbados, do you fancy coming?’” she recalled. The fact that her boyfriend agreed to join her on such short notice was, in Brenda’s eyes, a clear sign of his commitment and adventurous spirit.
Perhaps the most telling detail about the seriousness of their relationship came when Brenda revealed that her boyfriend now has a key to her flat. The panel’s reaction was a mix of surprise and delight, with Christine Lampard teasing, “I suppose then, really on reflection on the years that have gone by, this has kind of reframed your Christmas. This first Christmas as a couple has actually made you enjoy it.” Brenda responded with heartfelt honesty: “It’s the start of me getting back into just celebrating it... We had lots of food, it was absolutely wonderful.”
Gloria Hunniford, ever the matchmaker, couldn’t resist a playful nudge toward the future: “It’ll be the engagement and wedding next Christmas.” Brenda, quick to set boundaries, replied with a laugh, “Gloria, there’s no wedding.” The exchange underscored both the panel’s camaraderie and Brenda’s desire to savor the present without rushing into the next chapter.
Throughout the episode, Brenda’s openness about her journey resonated with viewers and her fellow panelists alike. The transformation—from avoiding holiday celebrations to embracing them with joy—was evident. As Christine Lampard summed up, “We’re very happy for you.” The warm wishes echoed the sentiments of many fans who have followed Brenda’s personal and professional life over the years.
The conversation on Loose Women offered more than just a glimpse into Brenda’s private life; it highlighted the universal themes of healing, new beginnings, and the courage it takes to let happiness in after loss. Brenda’s willingness to share her vulnerability and joy in equal measure struck a chord. Her story is a reminder that even after years of grief, it’s possible to find new reasons to celebrate—and sometimes, those reasons arrive when you least expect them.
The episode, which aired on January 6, 2026, also served as a testament to the enduring appeal of Loose Women itself. The show, which continues to air weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 12:30 PM, thrives on the authenticity and relatability of its panelists. By sharing real stories—messy, joyful, and everything in between—the program connects with audiences in a way that few others do.
For Brenda Edwards, this Christmas was a turning point. Surrounded by family, supported by a loving partner, and buoyed by the encouragement of her colleagues, she found a way to reclaim the festive spirit she thought she’d lost. As she embarks on this new chapter, Brenda’s story stands as a beacon of hope for anyone struggling to find joy after heartache. And as for what the future holds? Well, Brenda’s keeping that close to her chest—for now, at least.
