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Published on 20/03/2026 at 09:00 by Editorial Team

'It's a long time since I've been this happy' Loose Women's Brenda Edwards opens up on mystery man

Known for her laughter and resilience on Loose Women, Brenda Edwards shares what makes her truly happy today. What's really behind her new-found joy and the person she calls "a special someone"?

It’s not every day that you encounter someone who embodies both strength and warmth quite like Brenda Edwards. Bursting with energy on Loose Women since 2019, she’s captured hearts with her honest takes and infectious laugh. This year, ahead of International Women’s Day, she opened up in an exclusive shoot for Notebook, putting a spotlight on everything from her brush with serious illness to personal tragedy, and the possibility of love after heartbreak. Even in the most challenging times, Brenda finds a way to pull herself up—and now, there’s someone new by her side helping her keep that smile wide.

Laughter, Loss and Family: Brenda's Story

Brenda Edwards’s path has been anything but ordinary. First making waves as a contestant on The X Factor, she’s now an anchor for midday viewers on Loose Women, a role she’s cherished for more than six years. But behind the contagious laughter

"I'm there with my besties and I've got a big funny bone. I'm always the first to start laughing on set, then it sets everyone else off." lies a tapestry of personal battles.

Brenda lost both parents when she was just four and later faced the devastating death of her son, Jamal. Through it all, she has raised two children with the brand of determination that her family lives by:

"Pull yourself up, keep fighting."

Speaking Out, Surviving and Finding Love Again

Not only is Brenda known for her candour on daytime television, but she’s also fearless in addressing life’s harder topics. Her decision to go public with a stage 3 breast cancer diagnosis, saying:

"I originally went on to talk about my stage 3 breast cancer diagnosis as I didn't have any symptoms. It was about checking yourself," has inspired many to rethink their approach to health.

Brenda’s bond with fellow stars like Anastacia, who’s faced similar challenges, highlighted the shared strength among women in the entertainment world.

Her on-screen family is a real lifeline. Brenda says:

"Too many! But you have to keep battling and remain present and seen, which is something Loose Women is incredible at doing."

Colleagues like Coleen Nolan and motherly figures such as Auntie Pam, MBE—whose RAF discipline has left its mark—add emotional depth to her daily life. Yet, for all the camaraderie, it is Brenda’s off-stage revelations that captured the most attention. Around a year ago, she met a new partner:

"There is a special someone, who I met just over a year ago. I believe he's come at the right time, and I honestly believe my son sent him for me."

This gentle admission signals hope, marking a new era for the 56-year-old performer currently dazzling West End audiences in Paddington: The Musical.

Lifting Spirits On and Off Stage

If you ask Brenda what keeps her grounded, she credits the women around her—whether on the set of Loose Women or in her wider circle. Despite admitting:

"I'm a shy person, but if I'm relaxed I'll talk all day," Brenda’s commitment to honesty has built loyalty both onscreen and off.

The wave of support she receives whenever she shares a challenging moment displays the real affection viewers have for her. Her journey from personal hardship to finding happiness resonates widely, proving laughter and community can carry anyone through the hardest days.

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Sources used:

Loose Women's Brenda Edwards opens up on mystery man - 'It's a long time since I've been this happy' - OK! Magazine