Loose Women presenter Linda Robson has been forced to pull out of her festive pantomime engagement at short notice following a health scare. The 67-year-old actress was due to perform in Aladdin at the Orchard West Theatre in Dartford but has withdrawn on medical advice.
Pantomime Casting Change Announced
The theatre released a statement confirming the news, expressing disappointment but also announcing a high-profile replacement. Linda Robson will be succeeded by Antony Costa, the star of the platinum-selling boyband Blue, for most of the remaining shows. West End performer Hollie Cassar will also join the cast for selected dates.
The statement read: "Unfortunately, due to illness, Linda Robson will no longer be performing in Aladdin. We are sorry for any disappointment caused, but know our audiences will join us in wishing Linda well." It continued, confirming the new casting and directing audiences to the theatre's website for specific performance details.
Robson's Recent Health Update
This development follows a health update Linda shared earlier this month. Speaking to Bella magazine, she described having an "up and down year" but stated she was "doing alright" after a scare.
During an episode of ITV's Loose Women on Tuesday, she provided more detail, revealing that past gallstones had damaged her pancreas. She explained that doctors have been monitoring her closely after a cyst on her pancreas increased in size, causing concern for her family.
"I've had a bit of a health scare myself," Linda told her fellow panellists. "So, quite a few years ago I had gallstones and they damaged my pancreas, and they've been keeping an eye on me for a while now."
Looking Ahead to a Holiday Break
Despite the setback, Linda is looking forward to a break in the new year. She had previously stated her intention to go on holiday with her sisters to Cyprus once the pantomime run concluded.
"At the moment, I'm just thinking about going on holiday as soon as the panto finishes," she said. "It's been an up and down sort of year. I had a little health scare but I'm alright now."
The star has also been dealing with the emotional impact of her friend and former co-star Pauline Quirke's dementia diagnosis. Her withdrawal from the pantomime, where she was playing Councillor Chigwell, underscores a challenging period for the television personality.
