'Mama's back': Brenda Edwards replacing Gemma Collins in 'Chicago'

Loose Women star Brenda Edwards is replacing Gemma Collins in the upcoming tour of Chicago.

The TV star, 53, is stepping in as Mama Morton after TOWIE star Collins pulled out, reportedly due to an old knee injury.

Edwards played the character in the West End musical in 2007, and confirmed her return by tweeting: “Mama’s back.”

Read more: Gemma Collins feared she'd be 'locked up for life' over self-harm struggle

She is set to join the cast for dates across June and July.

Fans said they were thrilled for Edwards, whose son Jamal died in February following a sudden illness at the age of 31.

“Fantastic casting!” one person tweeted.

Another wrote: “Yes Yes Yes! Brenda's perfect for the role.”

Another said: "Always brilliant on TV but @brenda_edwards live on stage is unforgettable. Delighted to see her back."

"Oh my word just the BEST news for the loveliest lady!" said someone else.

Plenty of people said the presenter was the perfect person to play Mama.

"Fantastic to see u back out where u belong," tweeted one admirer.

Collins, 41, had announced earlier this year that she would be playing the character, saying that she was "so excited".

The reality TV star had been due to join the production at the end of May.

But earlier this week it was reported that she had to pull out of playing the prison guard after an old knee injury flared up.

A spokesperson told The Sun in a statement: "Gemma Collins' management have informed the producers of Chicago she will no longer be appearing in the UK Tour of the show due to a knee injury.

Read more: Gemma Collins admits she lied about filming a sex tape

"The producers of Chicago wish Gemma all the best for the future."

Watch: Gemma Collins pulls out of Chicago tour