Yahoo Movies Ruth Langsford walks off 'This Morning' set when mental health phone-in hits close to home
This Morning presenter Ruth Langsford briefly left the show’s set on today’s programme, during a phone-in about anxiety and depression.
The 58-year-old lost her sister, Julie, earlier this year after a long battle with illness.
Langsford quietly walked out of the studio during the segment, while a caller asked for advice regarding their mental health.
Read more: Prince Harry and Oprah team up for mental health TV series
Her co-host, husband Eamonn Holmes, explained his wife’s absence to viewers.
“Obviously this has featured in Ruth’s life,” he said.
“She’s upset now and she’s had to leave the studio because of her sister who was a chronic depressive and no matter what help or medication was there, it didn’t seem to make much difference.
“There were good times and bad times.”
Read more: Saira Khan opens up about depression
Langsford shared the news of her sister’s passing on social media in June, saying her heart was “completely broken” by the news.
The presenter added: “She was the kindest and most gentle soul and I will miss her forever.
“As I am sure you will appreciate I need to take time to grieve with my family. Thank you for your understanding.”
My lovely Sis Julia has sadly died after a very long illness. My heart is completely broken. She was the kindest and most gentle soul and I will miss her forever. As I am sure you will appreciate I need to take time to grieve with my family. Thank you for your understanding. pic.twitter.com/o6jMtIqMg4
— Ruth Langsford (@RuthieeL) June 20, 2019
Following her sister’s death, Langsford was replaced alongside Holmes on This Morning by Rylan Clark-Neal.
Holmes said that his wife had been left “broken” by the news.
Read more: Ed Sheeran admits to struggles with anxiety
During a link on that episode of the show, Loose Women presenter Andrea McClean offered her condolences to Langsford.
She said: “Just before we go, we did want to send all our love to Ruth of course.
“Please do let her know all of us at Loose Women are thinking of her, and of course, you and the family. Lots of love to you.”
Holmes and Langsford are presenting This Morning during the summer, replacing regular hosts Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby.
