The long-serving panellist faces backlash for sharing conspiracy theories linked to Israel on social media
Category: Arts & Culture
Nadia Sawalha, a prominent panellist on ITV's *Loose Women*, has reportedly been removed from the show following accusations of sharing antisemitic conspiracy theories on social media. The 61-year-old actress has not appeared on the popular daytime talk show since late April and is not expected to return next week as the broadcaster seeks to distance itself from her controversial online activities.
The decision comes after complaints from both staff and viewers about the nature of the content on Sawalha's YouTube channel, which she runs with her husband, Mark Adderley. Insiders have described the channel's posts as increasingly conspiratorial, with some alleging they resemble antisemitism disguised as anti-Israel rhetoric. A source close to *Loose Women* stated, "We love Nadia, she's a great Loose Woman. There has been a lot going on, so *Loose Women* is having some space from her for some calm."
Sawalha has been a regular on *Loose Women* since the show first aired in 1999, making her absence particularly notable. Her departure from the panel comes in the aftermath of her husband's suspension from the Green Party, where he faced backlash for alleged antisemitic comments, including comparing Israel to Nazi Germany and praising the actions of Hamas during the recent attacks on October 7.
The couple's YouTube channel, known as *Coffee Moaning*, has featured videos that promote conspiracy theories linking Israel to various global incidents, including the assassination of American political figure Charlie Kirk and a missile strike on a British base in Cyprus. The content has raised alarms among ITV staff, prompting complaints that it could damage the network's reputation.
Mark Adderley was suspended from the Green Party ahead of local elections in Croydon, where he was a candidate. His suspension followed the emergence of posts that allegedly celebrated the "courage" of those behind the Hamas attacks and included conspiracy theories attributing blame for the September 11 attacks and the Bondi Beach terror attack in Australia to Jews. Notably, his name still appeared on the ballot papers during the elections, leading to questions about the party's handling of the situation.
In the aftermath of his suspension, Sawalha posted a 21-minute video on social media, where she defended her husband and blamed what she referred to as "dark forces behind everything that you see" for the backlash against him. She insisted that Adderley had been "slandered" and treated unfairly, describing him as "the most decent kind, super smart man with the hugest of hearts." She maintained that his activism was altruistic, aiming to support Palestinian rights.
The Campaign Against Antisemitism has called for ITV to investigate Sawalha's remarks, questioning the nature of the "dark forces" she mentioned. Their spokesperson expressed concern that her continued appearances on *Loose Women* could lead to reputational damage for the broadcaster, stating, "You expect spouses to be loyal, but appearing to double down on the sort of conspiratorial tropes that her husband has been promoting is not the way to go about it."
Following the controversy, Sawalha's future on *Loose Women* remains uncertain. Reports indicate that both she and ITV are taking time apart to reassess the situation. Insiders have noted that there is a growing concern for her mental health, with colleagues worried that she may have brought this situation upon herself through her online activities.
As ITV navigates this delicate situation, the network is also undergoing broader changes, with *Loose Women* being reduced to only 30 weeks of programming each year as part of cost-cutting measures. This backdrop adds another layer of complexity to Sawalha's potential return to the show.
In the meantime, Sawalha and Adderley have continued to engage with their audience through their YouTube channel, where they recently reacted to the local election results. During this livestream, Sawalha reiterated her accusations against the Labour Party, blaming them for allegedly smearing her husband. The couple remains committed to their political views, asserting their support for the Green Party, even in the face of controversy.
As the situation develops, many are watching closely to see how ITV will handle the fallout from this incident. The network has not yet confirmed whether Sawalha will be reinstated on *Loose Women* or if any formal investigation into her actions will take place. With public scrutiny intensifying, the implications of this controversy could resonate beyond just the immediate fallout for Sawalha and Adderley.
ITV has been contacted for comment, but as of now, there has been no official statement addressing the future of Sawalha on the show.