At 84 years old, broadcasting veteran Gloria Hunniford remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Best known for her roles on Loose Women and Rip Off Britain, she continues to thrive in her career, maintaining a busy schedule that keeps her firmly in the public eye.
However, behind her relentless work ethic lies a deeply personal and heartbreaking reason that fuels her drive to stay active.
A Lifetime in Showbiz
Gloria’s career in the entertainment industry began when she was just seven years old, performing as a singer in her native Ireland.
From an early age, she immersed herself in show business, carving out a path that would see her become one of the UK’s most recognizable television personalities.
Today, she is a regular panellist on Loose Women, engaging in lively discussions on a wide range of topics, from social issues to personal experiences. In addition, she co-hosts Rip Off Britain, a consumer affairs programme that helps expose scams and fraudulent activities, demonstrating her commitment to public advocacy.
Her enduring presence on television is a testament to her passion for broadcasting. But for Gloria, staying busy is about more than just work—it has become a crucial coping mechanism.
Tragic Losses That Changed Her Life
Gloria’s tireless dedication to her career is, in part, a way to deal with the profound grief she has experienced. More than two decades ago, she suffered an unimaginable loss when her daughter, Caron Keating, passed away after a brave battle with cancer.
Caron, a well-known television presenter, was just 41 when she died in 2004. Her passing left an irreplaceable void in Gloria’s life, and in the years that followed, she found solace in work as a means of keeping her mind occupied.
More recently, Gloria faced yet another devastating loss when her beloved husband, Stephen Way, passed away. The two had shared more than three decades together, having married in 1998 after several years of companionship.
Speaking about her grief, Gloria admitted that work provides her with a much-needed sense of structure.
“Work makes me feel safe because I have a structure; I know what I’m supposed to be doing,” she explained. “As long as you can take yourself away from grief for an hour, it helps clear your mind for a little while.”
A Coping Mechanism That Works for Her
Gloria acknowledges that her way of dealing with grief might not be for everyone, but for her, staying busy is essential.
“I’ve worked since I was seven, and for me, doing things and keeping busy is good for my head. To do nothing would be miserable for me. My way of coping wouldn’t be for everybody, and I’m sure it’s quite controversial, but I love work.”
As she approaches her 85th birthday on April 10, Gloria is facing a period of adjustment as she navigates life without Stephen. She reflected on the difficult moments she has experienced when left alone with her thoughts.
“Some of my worst times, when Caron passed and also when Stevie passed, were if I was at home on my own,” she shared. “And suddenly your mind wanders, and you think, ‘What happened there, for goodness’ sake?’”
A Legacy of Strength and Resilience
Despite her personal heartbreak, Gloria continues to inspire many with her strength and unwavering dedication to her career. Her resilience in the face of loss serves as a powerful reminder of the different ways people cope with grief. For Gloria, work is more than just a job—it is a lifeline that helps her move forward, even in the most challenging times.
As she continues to grace television screens, her story is one of perseverance, passion, and the enduring power of finding purpose amid pain.
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