Ruth Langsford, beloved TV personality and *Loose Women* panelist, 

has shared how her close female friendships have played a crucial role in helping her navigate the emotional fallout from her divorce from long-time partner, Eamonn Holmes.

The couple, both 65, shocked fans when they announced their separation in May 2023 after 14 years of marriage and nearly three decades together.

Now, eight months later, Ruth is opening up about the struggles she faced in the wake of their split and the invaluable support she received from her closest friends.

In a candid interview with *Woman and Home* magazine,

Ruth revealed that while going through such a public breakup was challenging, her friends were there to lift her up when she needed them most.

“My female friendships are very important,” she said. “And, by God, have they stepped up.” Ruth reflected on how her friends, many of whom she describes as her “2am friends,” have supported her through the tough times.

“They lift you up from the floor, they dry your tears, they bring food around, they phone you all the time to make sure you’re OK – and I would do the same for them,” she added, emphasizing how the presence of reliable friends has been a true lifeline.

The divorce was not only a deeply personal experience for Ruth but one that played out publicly, as her relationship with Eamonn was followed by millions of viewers. This public scrutiny added an additional layer of difficulty to an already painful process.

As Ruth explained, the reality of facing such a breakup in front of the entire world is uniquely challenging: “A divorce is very difficult and it’s very painful, but most people don’t have to do it in the public eye, with everybody having an opinion about you and writing things about you and commenting things about you.”

Despite the difficult circumstances surrounding her separation, Ruth also shared how the support of her friends helped her cope with the emotional toll.

Whether it was late-night phone calls or comforting visits, Ruth’s circle of friends proved to be a constant source of comfort. “I can probably count those friends – the 2am friend – on one hand,” she said, underscoring the rarity and value of truly dependable relationships.

As Ruth continues to heal and adjust to life after her divorce, she has focused on putting herself first. After years of putting her relationship at the forefront, Ruth is embracing the opportunity to travel more and focus on personal goals.

In fact, she is considering a trip to Thailand to visit her best friend from school or perhaps organizing a girls’ trip to celebrate her upcoming 65th birthday.

Ruth is clear about her intentions for 2025: “I’m definitely not planning my next 10 years in finite detail,” she said, embracing the freedom that comes with living in the present. For her, this period marks a sense of liberation and the chance to redefine what lies ahead.

Though Ruth has remained single since her split from Eamonn, she has kept an eye on his life as he has moved on with relationship counselor Katie Alexander, who is 42.

Despite the changes in their personal lives, Ruth has found peace in the fact that she is surrounded by a strong, supportive network of women who have helped her through her darkest days.

Reflecting on her journey, Ruth shared how her relationship with Eamonn will always hold significance, but she is focusing on her personal growth now. “I’m quite fine being on my own, but not forever,” she confessed.

“When you’re in a relationship, it’s easy to say, ‘Great, I’ve got a weekend to myself,’ but when you think that might be every weekend, it’s a different story.”

Looking ahead, Ruth is embracing her newfound freedom and the opportunities that lie in the future.

Whether it’s traveling, nurturing her friendships, or focusing on her own well-being, Ruth Langsford is proving that with the right support system and the strength to move forward, the next chapter can be brighter than ever.