GB News Presenter Eamonn Holmes Hospitalised Following Stroke
Veteran broadcaster Eamonn Holmes was urgently admitted to A&E after suffering a stroke, mere days before he was due to resume his presenting duties on GB News. The 66-year-old presenter fell ill last Tuesday while on annual leave and remained hospitalised overnight, with his girlfriend, Katie Alexander, 44, reportedly by his side.
Official Statement and Recovery Wishes
A spokesperson for GB News confirmed the situation, stating: 'Eamonn was taken ill last week and it was later confirmed he had suffered a stroke. He is currently responding well to treatment. Eamonn has asked for privacy as he focuses on getting better. His colleagues and everyone at GB News wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming him back to the People's Channel when he is ready to return.'
The father-of-four has been absent from his breakfast show, which he co-hosts with Ellie Costello, since March 11. His last appearance was marked by an unusual incident where he appeared to fall asleep live on air, followed by fidgeting with his microphone and mobile phone, leaving viewers and colleagues bewildered.
History of On-Air Incidents and Health Struggles
This is not the first time Holmes has faced scrutiny over his on-air behaviour. In May last year, he fell off his chair during a live interview with Charlie Rowley, former special adviser to Michael Gove. Costello was heard exclaiming 'oh my gosh' after a loud crash, with Holmes quickly assuring everyone he was fine.
Behind the scenes, colleagues have expressed growing frustration with his erratic performances. Several presenters have suggested they could deliver a more professional show, while female co-hosts complain about carrying him through disjointed discussions. One insider revealed: 'Eamonn is really struggling. He has always been hard work. Now he's unwell and tired, it's becoming so difficult. The hours are gruelling and tough, Eamonn is not in the best health so the earlier mornings are really, really hard.'
The source added concerns about his financial motivations, noting: 'The problem he has is that he needs the money. But is he really up to working? Maybe not.'
Longstanding Health Issues and Personal Challenges
Holmes has battled serious health problems for years, including:
- A double hip replacement operation in 2016
- Three slipped discs
- A dislocated pelvis
- Major spinal surgery in 2022
- Additional spinal surgery the following year
- Various other health issues over recent years
Compounding these challenges, the former GMTV anchor is embroiled in a bitter divorce battle with Ruth Langsford, following their split nearly two years ago. The couple are understood to be selling their £2.4 million home in Weybridge, Surrey.
Holmes previously hosted ITV's This Morning with Langsford and Sky News's Sunrise show, building a long career in broadcasting. As he focuses on recovery, questions linger about his ability to return to the demanding schedule of morning television.
