Linda Robson, the beloved actress and Loose Women panelist, recently spoke candidly about the complexities of grandparenting in today’s technology-driven world. Speaking on the Loose Women podcast, the 67-year-old revealed just how much she treasures her time with her granddaughters, describing them as the greatest joy in her life.
“I love having my grandchildren more than anything else in the world, even more than my own children,” Linda shared. After returning from work commitments, reuniting with her grandchildren was her top priority. “I really, really missed them. They were the first people I went to see—after the dog, of course, because Dolly Parton needs me,” she joked.
However, Linda also revealed challenges in connecting with her 13-year-old granddaughter, Lila, as the teenager’s social life and technology use have shifted their relationship. “With Lila, there’s less of a conversation now,” Linda noted, reflecting on how modern technology has replaced direct interaction. She recalled sleepovers where Lila stayed up late on Snapchat, making it difficult to engage.
READ MORE: UK Village Sparks Debate After Being Dubbed ‘The New Cotswolds’
READ MORE: Monty Don Opens Up About His “Split Identity” and Gardening Controversies
“When they were younger, the granddaughters and I did many activities together, like going to the cinema,” Linda explained. “Now Lila spends more time with her friends, so I’ve really struggled with that change.”
The dynamic with her younger granddaughter, Betsy, however, remains very different. “Betsy is happy to be with me 24 hours a day,” Linda said, highlighting the contrasting way each child embraces her presence. While Linda admits she is more relaxed than her daughter Lauren about screen time rules, she acknowledges the influence of phones and laptops on their behavior.
“I try to get Betsy to play games or watch films with me, but her focus is often on her devices. Eventually, I just hand her the laptop,” she explained. “Their behavior has shifted – instead of spending quality time together, even at restaurants, they often want to use the phone or other gadgets.”
This openness about family struggles comes amid Linda’s broader discussions about her own personal battles. Earlier this year, she revealed to Lorraine host Ranvir Singh that she had endured severe mental health issues, including depression and a period on suicide watch. “I started drinking anything and everything just to get through the day,” she admitted, adding that she continues to grapple with guilt over the impact on her children and grandchildren.
The pain of being separated from her grandchildren was particularly acute for Linda, who disclosed, “I wasn’t allowed to see my grandchildren for a while,” a heartbreak that still affects her deeply.
Linda Robson’s candid reflections shed light on the evolving challenges grandparents face in maintaining close bonds in an age dominated by digital connections.