ITV presenter Laura Woods was dramatically taken ill and appeared to collapse live on air just moments before the Lionesses' international friendly against Ghana on Tuesday night.
Shocking Moment Broadcast Cut Short
The alarming incident occurred during ITV's live pre-match coverage from the studio. On Tuesday 2 December 2025, Woods was presenting alongside pundits Ian Wright and Anita Asante when she suddenly became unwell. Viewers watched as the former Arsenal striker Wright and former England defender Asante quickly moved to support Woods, catching her before she fell.
The broadcast was then hastily cut away from the studio, with the channel going to an unscheduled commercial break. The swift actions of the on-air team prevented a more serious fall, but the moment caused significant concern among viewers and production staff.
Swift Handover to Replacement Presenter
When the coverage resumed after the break, a different face was leading the show. Katie Shanahan had stepped in to replace Woods as the lead presenter for the remainder of the pre-match build-up and the match itself.
Addressing viewers directly, Shanahan provided a brief but reassuring update on her colleague's condition. She confirmed that Woods had been 'taken ill' but was now 'in very good hands'. The statement was designed to allay immediate fears while respecting Woods's privacy regarding the specific nature of her illness.
Focus Returns to the Pitch
Despite the shocking start to the evening, the broadcast team professionally steered the focus back to the football. Shanahan, Wright, and Asante continued with the scheduled analysis and discussion ahead of the England women's national team's clash with Ghana.
The incident highlights the unpredictable nature of live television and the pressure faced by broadcasters. The well-being of Laura Woods is now the primary concern for ITV, her colleagues, and fans across the country. Further updates on her condition are expected in due course.
