Loose Women star Carol McGiffin has explained her shock exit from the ITV show, leaving her fellow panellists "gutted".
The presenter and TV personality, 63, hasn't been on the show for a couple of months, leaving fans to question where she was.
Carol has since opened up about a contract clash she is locked in with ITV, which has prevented her from starring on the show.
The Celebrity Big Brother star explained she has experienced a lot of "stress" from what has happened so far and feels "quite upset" by it all.
She also admitted she feels she has been forced to make a decision to step back from the programme due to the "unjust" contract.
Speaking to Best magazine, she said: "The problem was, ITV were insisting, for the first time since I went back in 2018, that if I wanted to carry on doing the show, I would have to sign a contract that was totally unjust and unworkable for me, so I had to say 'no thanks.'"
"I feel quite upset about it, if I'm honest, because although it is my decision, I felt like it was one I was being forced to make. No one in their right mind would have signed that contract. And I can't see a way back from it," Carol added.
Carol's words come as ITV has been hit by changes by HMRC to tax legislation.
It is now up to ITV to decide whether a role is employed or self-employed for tax purposes from April 2021.
It is understood some panellists on the daytime show work freelance, declaring themselves self-employed.
But now some have been told to go on a PAYE contract - meaning that instead of corporation tax at 19%, they will have to pay 40% on earnings between £50,271 and £150,000, plus National Insurance.
ITV sources say the broadcaster has communicated the change to all those concerned across the channel and that assessments are done on a "case-by-case basis".
An ITV spokeswoman has previously said: "ITV complies with HMRC legislation when assessing the tax status of individuals. ITV will not comment on or disclose any individual's specific circumstances."
Since announcing her shock exit, other Loose Women stars have been showing their support to Carol.
Frankie Bridge said: "Gutted Carol xx".
"Carol, I always enjoy when you are on as we have such a laugh, but you of course must always do what is best for you! I really hope I get to see you again love you lots lovely lady. Keep Smiling," wrote Brenda Edwards.
Denise Welch commented: "Gutted Mcgiff truly," whilst Nadia Sawalha added: "Miss you smelly poo! Even though we disagreed on most things you’ve always made me laugh my head off!
"As I’ve always said thank god we weren’t at school together it would have been #carnage !! Big hugs x".
Charlene White said: "I really miss you, and am so gutted xx".
Carol was a regular panellist on the show, having first appeared in 2000.
She continued on the programme until 2013, where she took a break and entered the Celebrity Big Brother house where she finished fourth.
In June 2018, it was announced by Denise Welch that Carol would be returning to Loose Women after five years away.
Carol was best known for her frank opinions whilst discussing various topics on the show.
Most recently, she fumed at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle over their Netflix documentary, as the other panellists rushed to defend them.
