BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Steve Crossman has revealed that he experienced a seizure while broadcasting live from the World Cup in Mexico. The host, who traveled to cover the tournament across the US, Canada, and Mexico, shared the news on social media before returning to the UK.
Seizure During Broadcast
"So, I had a seizure while on air in Mexico not long after arriving at the World Cup," Crossman wrote. "I stuck it out, inspired by my sister who never let her epilepsy stop her." He added that it had been tough but praised his colleagues at 5 Live Sport for their support.
Fans quickly responded with supportive messages. One follower said: "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."
History with Epilepsy
Crossman had previously spoken openly about his condition during a 5 Live Breakfast segment in 2024. He revealed that he received his neurological diagnosis in 2013, following his first "proper seizure" the previous year. "I often say to people, 'epilepsy is not just seizures'. Seizures are the worst of epilepsy," he said in the clip. "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 for Charity
Earlier this week, Crossman announced he would run the 2027 London Marathon for the Epilepsy Society in memory of his sister, Jill, who died from Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) in 2021. In a heartfelt post, he wrote: "You'll have to get used to these posts! We lost my amazing sister Jill to her epilepsy and I'm running the 2027 London Marathon for @epilepsysociety. I'm a sufferer myself of this dreadful disease, if you can spare a couple of quid it'd mean the world."
On his fundraising page, he added: "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!"
