Kaye Adams’ sudden absence from BBC Radio Scotland has sparked conversations across the broadcasting world.
While the veteran presenter is currently on leave, there’s one reassuring fact for her fans: her long-standing role as a head panellist on Loose Women appears secure… at least for now.
The 62-year-old, who earns a reported £155,000 per year for her morning radio slot, has been temporarily removed from her show following allegations of workplace bullying.
The BBC has confirmed she remains part of the organisation, but HR is conducting an inquiry into complaints from junior colleagues who say Adams “shouted and screamed” at staff.
Loose Women Role Faces Uncertainty
Adams has been a fixture on ITV’s Loose Women since the show began in 1999, balancing her television duties alongside her radio commitments. However, the controversy at BBC Scotland comes at a tricky time for the daytime series.
Loose Women is already facing cuts, with the weekly schedule set to shrink from five episodes a week to 30 weeks annually from January.
This restructuring will also result in dozens of job losses.
Meanwhile, the show’s live studio audience—critical for panellists like Ruth Langsford, Nadia Sawalha, and Charlene White—is being axed to save costs, further altering the dynamic of the programme.
Adams’ ITV employers may keep a close eye on developments, particularly if the BBC investigation finds substance in the bullying allegations.
Allegations and BBC Response
The complaints against Adams were reportedly raised under the BBC’s Call It Out initiative, a programme designed to address workplace misconduct following scandals involving former MasterChef hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode.
A BBC spokesperson said: “We would not comment on any individual case. If any complaints or concerns are raised we have robust internal processes in place to manage these.”
A senior source revealed that Adams isn’t expected back on air for at least two weeks as the investigation continues.
Sources confirmed she was asked to meet with Victoria Easton Riley, the station’s new head of audio, on October 8, but “stormed out” and hasn’t returned since.
Another insider explained: “There have been complaints about her behaviour, and they’ve removed her while they investigate it.
It’s being talked about all over Pacific Quay.”
Adams’ Statement and Past Achievements
After being contacted, Adams’ spokesperson said she had not been formally presented with any complaints.
“Further, she has worked for BBC Radio Scotland for more than 15 years and in that time has never had any issue raised about her,” the spokesperson added.
Aside from her radio show, Adams hosts an independent podcast, How To Be 60, and has been a longtime supporter of charities including Beatson Cancer, Kindred, and Home-Start Glasgow North and North Lanarkshire.
In her personal life, Adams resides in Glasgow with her partner, tennis coach Ian Campbell, and their two daughters.
Career Highlights and Recent Controversies
Adams previously won a decade-long battle with HMRC over a £124,000 tax bill, confirming her status as a freelance worker during her BBC tenure from 2013 to 2017.
She has also been open about past controversies, including admitting to previously shaving ten years off her age publicly.
While Adams’ radio presence is currently paused, ITV has yet to be informed of the BBC investigation.
Connie McLaughlin has stepped in to cover her show in the interim, allowing Adams time to focus on the ongoing inquiry.