Eamonn Holmes Set for GB News Comeback Following Extended Absence
The broadcasting schedule for veteran presenter Eamonn Holmes on GB News has been officially clarified, precisely one month after a controversial on-air episode where he appeared to fall asleep during a live programme. The 66-year-old journalist, who vanished from the morning show shortly after the incident, is now confirmed to be returning to our screens on Monday 13 April, according to reports from The Sun newspaper.
On-Air Incident and Immediate Aftermath
On 11 March, during his regular slot on Breakfast with Eamonn and Ellie, viewers expressed significant alarm as Holmes seemed to doze off in his studio chair. Witnesses noted he was also fumbling with his microphone and mobile phone throughout the broadcast, with some describing his speech as slurred. This prompted an outpouring of concern on social media platforms, with fans directly messaging the star to inquire about his wellbeing and absence.
An insider close to the situation revealed to The Sun, 'There have been lots of whispers about Eamonn being off. It’s unlike him. He lives and breathes presenting on television.' GB News initially stated that Holmes was on scheduled annual leave when contacted by the Daily Mail on 17 March, but no further details were provided at that time.
Viewer Reaction and Holmes' Response
Social media platforms were flooded with messages from concerned followers during his absence. One viewer posted on X, 'I do miss him on #GBNews in the morning...' while another asked on Instagram, 'Why are you not on GB NEWS? We miss seeing you in the mornings.' Similar sentiments were echoed across various posts, with many questioning when the beloved presenter would return.
Holmes later addressed the speculation during a public appearance at Hayley Palmer's An Audience With... event in London's Hippodrome Casino. He firmly denied falling asleep, explaining, 'I was just looking down at my mic pack to see why it was not working, as we don't have floor managers or camera operators. Apparently I was sleeping? Whatever!' according to The Mirror.
Ongoing Health Challenges and Industry Reflections
This incident occurs against the backdrop of Holmes' publicly documented health struggles. The broadcaster underwent a double hip replacement in 2016, but suffered three slipped discs and a dislocated pelvis in 2021. He then had major spinal surgery the following year, and has used a wheelchair intermittently since. During a recent podcast appearance on Scott Wright’s Session7, Holmes provided a candid health update, describing his situation as 'horrendous'.
He expressed frustration with what he perceives as ageism in the television industry, stating, 'I don't know, society's ageist, I'm sick, I'm in a wheelchair, that's been horrendous to deal with for two years. Certainly, I don't think TV wants to know you.' Holmes detailed his daily reliance on carers and the physical challenges of his condition, though he emphasised his professional capability once seated.
The presenter also highlighted broader accessibility issues, citing difficulties with hotel bookings and cinema seating as examples of societal barriers faced by disabled individuals. He recounted, 'You can't even phone a hotel anymore. I want to talk to people and explain I've got special needs. I need a bathroom with bars so I can hold and stand up in the shower... but you just cannot speak to anybody. But nobody cares.'
Broadcasting Career and Personal Context
Eamonn Holmes has been a prominent figure in British television for decades, presenting shows including GMTV, Open Air, Jet Set, TV Scrabble and How Do They Do That? He is perhaps best known for co-presenting This Morning alongside his ex-wife Ruth Langsford from 2006 to 2021. The couple announced their separation in 2024 after 14 years of marriage. Holmes has hosted Breakfast with Eamonn and Isabel on GB News since 2022, where he has occasionally discussed his health challenges on air.
As the confirmed return date approaches, viewers and industry observers alike will be watching closely to see how Holmes resumes his broadcasting duties following this highly publicised hiatus and the ongoing discussions about health, disability, and ageism in media.
