BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Steve Crossman has disclosed that he experienced a seizure while broadcasting live from Mexico during the World Cup. The presenter, who traveled to cover the tournament hosted across the US, Canada, and Mexico, shared the news on social media just days after announcing his participation in the London Marathon for the Epilepsy Society in memory of his late sister.
Seizure Occurred Shortly After Arrival
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Crossman wrote: "So, I had a seizure whilst on air in Mexico not long after arriving at the World Cup. I stuck it out, inspired by my sister who never let her epilepsy stop her." He added, "It’s been tough BUT I’ve been surrounded by amazing @5liveSport friends. (Yes this is another sponsorship plea)."
Support from Fans and Colleagues
Fans quickly offered their support, with one commenting: "Sorry to hear this Steve. You are such an excellent broadcaster and come across as a thoroughly decent bloke. All the best." Another wrote: "Love listening to you on the radio, I hope you are well and good luck on the marathon next year. You are all doing a brilliant job on the World Cup." A third added: "Sorry to hear that Steve. Glad you’re ok but crap circumstances (not that it’s ever good circumstances)."
Crossman’s History with Epilepsy
Crossman had previously discussed his condition on a 5 Live Breakfast segment in 2024, revealing he was diagnosed with epilepsy in 2013 after his first "proper seizure" the year before. He emphasized, "I often say to people, ‘epilepsy is not just seizures’. Seizures are the worst of epilepsy. They’re awful, they’re embarrassing and they’re physically very dangerous, but the mental health impacts on people who have epilepsy, and the families of people who have epilepsy, is awful."
London Marathon Fundraiser in Sister’s Memory
Earlier in the week, Crossman announced he would run the 2027 London Marathon to raise funds for the Epilepsy Society in memory of his sister, Jill, who died from Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) in 2021. On his fundraising page, he wrote: "I have epilepsy and my sister Jill died from Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) in 2021. She was one of the most resilient people I've ever known and if she could find the bravery to live amongst polar bears in Alaska during her amazing life then I think I should be able to plod my way round London! Any donation you can give will help the Epilepsy Society to continue their incredible work and will spur me on throughout my training!"
