GB News presenter Patrick Christys has provided a fresh update on Eamonn Holmes, who has been absent from the channel since suffering a stroke in April. Speaking at the TRIC Awards, Christys told the Daily Express that the 66-year-old broadcaster is recovering well and that the entire team is eager for his return.
Recovery Progress
“As far as I'm aware, Eamonn is doing very well. He's getting better all the time,” Christys said. “I know GB News viewers and listeners are all desperate to have him back. The staff, we're all desperate to have him back.”
Holmes was rushed to hospital in April after suffering a stroke and has been off air since. During his absence, Alex Armstrong has stepped in as a main presenter, alongside other familiar faces.
Team Support
Christys praised the current lineup, stating, “Alex Armstrong has been in the hot seat whilst Eamonn's been away and he's been doing an incredible job. We've got such a great team in Ellie Costello, Stephen Dixon, Anne Diamond, that's all going fantastically well.” He added, “But it's not quite the same without the TV institution that is Eamonn Holmes. We all wish him very well and I'm sure he'll be back before we know it.”
Holmes Speaks Out
After GB News won the award for Best News Programme for the fourth consecutive year at the TRIC Awards, Holmes addressed his absence in a message to viewers on June 24. “I'd just like to say a huge thank you to all the viewers who took the time and trouble to vote. To win for the fourth time in a row is unbelievable, and I'm so proud to be a part of Britain's number one news channel,” he said.
Holmes explained his focus remains on recovery: “I'd dearly wished I could have been there to celebrate with the team, but for now my focus has to be on making a full recovery and getting back to my best.” He also thanked supporters: “I'd also like to thank everyone who has sent their kind get-well messages. They really do mean the world to me.”
Anne Diamond's Remarks
Fellow presenter Anne Diamond echoed hopes for Holmes' return when she accepted the award on stage at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London. “There are a couple of people who would love to be here but can't. Eamonn Holmes is not very well at the moment but he is doing well, he is recovering and we hope he will be back with us very soon,” she said.
