ITV viewers saw panellist Kaye Adams make a tragic announcement minutes into Friday’s show.

During the most recent episode of Loose Women, ITV audiences received the devastating news that a cherished actress had died.

This follows after the programme experienced a significant mishap earlier this week, which left one host embarrassed.

As Friday’s broadcast commenced, Kaye remarked: “We want to remember Dame Patricia Routledge, who has died at the age of 96.

“We all loved her as the hilariously snobbish Hyacinth Bouquet, Hyacinth Bucket, in Keeping Up Appearances. So from all of us here at Loose, we are sending our best to her loved ones.

“She will be missed, she’s a true legend.”

Following Kaye’s heartfelt words, the studio audience erupted into enthusiastic applause, reports the Express.

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Kaye Adams issued a heartbreaking announcement on Friday’s show(Image: ITV)

The performer portrayed the amusing Hyacinth Bucket in the BBC comedy series across five seasons, broadcasting from 1990 through to 1995.

Her representative informed the PA news agency on Friday that Patricia had died ‘peacefully’ during her sleep whilst surrounded by family.

A statement revealed: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of Dame Patricia Routledge, who died peacefully in her sleep this morning, surrounded by love.

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Patricia Routledge has died at the age of 96(Image: GETTY)

“Even at 96 years old, Dame Patricia’s passion for her work and for connecting with live audiences never waned, just as new generations of audiences have continued to find her through her beloved television roles.

“She will be dearly missed by those closest to her and by her devoted admirers around the world.”

Following the announcement of her passing, an outpouring of tributes has been seen for the late actress, known for her roles in Steptoe and Son and Coronation Street.

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Patricia Routledge was best known for her role in Keeping Up Appearances(Image: BBC)

Jon Petrie, the BBC’s director of comedy, praised Patricia as an actor of ‘remarkable range’.

He stated: “Her portrayal of Hyacinth Bucket in Keeping Up Appearances has to be one of the most iconic performances in British comedy.

“She took a character on the page and gave her such truth, precision and warmth that Hyacinth became part of the national conversation; instantly recognisable, endlessly quotable, and loved around the world.