Loose Women star Jane McDonald recently opened up about her life off-screen, revealing a journey filled with immense heartaches and personal growth. As audiences look forward to her travel documentary airing on March 22, 2025, the singer and television presenter shares her experiences navigating loss and reclaiming joy.
McDonald, aged 61, is not only known for her vibrant appearance on the ITV daytime talk show but also for her candid reflections on her profound losses. One of the most heart-wrenching moments in her life was the passing of her fiancé, Eddie Rothe, in 2021. Rothe, who bravely battled lung cancer, passed away at 67 years old. The couple had rekindled their romance in the early 2000s, after having known each other since their teenage years, and became engaged in 2008.
Recalling their relationship, McDonald spoke fondly of Rothe, describing him as one of the most incredible humans she ever met. “You have to find your way of dealing with it, it’s not easy. It never leaves you either. Everybody thinks, ‘Oh, she’s back on track.’ No, it never leaves you. I have to make a decision every morning about what my day is going to be like, because you can go that way, or you can go that way,” she shared.
This is not the only tragedy that has touched McDonald’s life. She also faced the heartache of losing her mother, Jean, in December 2018. Her announcement of this loss deeply resonated with her fans, who offered overwhelming support. “I know this time of year is difficult for so many people due to losing loved ones, this year I join you. I have very recently lost my beautiful Mum. A light in my heart has gone out for a short while,” she expressed during that difficult time.
Despite these heart-wrenching experiences, McDonald demonstrates a remarkable resilience and determination to find joy in her life. She credits her music as a source of strength that keeps her anchored through dark days. Music has always been her true passion; she began her career performing in local clubs and pubs before gaining fame as a singer on cruise ships. After her breakthrough in 1998 from her appearance on the BBC show The Cruise, she has continually engaged with her music, which now serves as her driving force.
“I choose to go the positive way and it’s not always easy,” she said, reflecting on her current mindset. “It’s not always easy, and if you have a bad day, that’s fine. Have a bad day. But in general, now I look at my life, and I think, ‘I've got a lot more good days in my life than I have bad days now.’ I’ve come on leaps and bounds and I think the music and touring again, and getting back with my band, and writing new stuff again is just, it’s given me such joy and a purpose.”
McDonald’s journey has led her to rediscover her passion for performance, and she regards her return to the stage as a pivotal aspect of her healing process. “My purpose is to go out and entertain. Yeah, I think once you’ve found your purpose in life, everything just comes together, and I feel my purpose now is to get back on that stage,” she stated emphatically.
Fans eagerly await her documentary featuring her adventures in Tenerife and Gran Canaria, promising a glimpse into McDonald’s transformative experiences since her trials. This special is another opportunity for her to connect with her audience on a deeper level consistently, reminding them of the importance of resilience and the search for joy amidst sorrow.
McDonald continues to inspire many with her story of loss, recovery, and the tenacity to live a fulfilling life despite the odds. Amid the tragic losses, her faith in love and life shines brightly as she takes each day at a time, finding light amid darkness.
As she prepares for her documentary release and her return to live performances, Jane McDonald emerges not just as a beloved television personality but as a beacon of hope for those facing their struggles – a testament to the idea that healing is possible, and joy can coexist with heartache.
