BBC Radio 5 Live host Steve Crossman has disclosed that he suffered a seizure while presenting live on air during the network's World Cup coverage. The incident occurred shortly after his arrival in Mexico, one of the host nations for the tournament being staged across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Crossman Shares Health Update on Social Media
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Crossman informed his followers about the episode. He 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. It’s been tough BUT I’ve been surrounded by amazing @5liveSport friends. (Yes this is another sponsorship plea)."
The announcement came just days after Crossman revealed his intention to run the London Marathon in 2027 to raise funds for the Epilepsy Society, in memory of his late sister Jill, who died in 2021 from Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP).
Support from Fans and Colleagues
Listeners and followers responded with an outpouring of support. One fan commented: "Sorry to hear this Steve. You are such an excellent broadcaster and come across as a thoroughly decent bloke. All the best." Another wrote: "Take care Steve. I have epilepsy and I know how difficult things can be and it broke my heart to read about your sister. I hope you get the support by your family as I do mine. I had to surrender my licence for 6 months for my first seizure and 12 months for my second."
A third supporter said: "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." Another echoed: "Sorry to hear this Steve. Hope you are okay now. Enjoying listening to the American breakfast broadcasts!"
Crossman's History with Epilepsy
The broadcaster previously discussed his condition during a 5 Live Breakfast segment in 2024, revealing that he was diagnosed with epilepsy in 2013 after experiencing his first "proper seizure" the year before. He explained: "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 this week, Crossman posted on X: "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 elaborated on his motivation: "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!"
