GB News Presenter Eamonn Holmes Hospitalised Following Stroke
GB News breakfast host Eamonn Holmes is currently recovering in hospital after suffering a stroke, the broadcaster confirmed in a statement on Saturday. The 66-year-old Northern Irish presenter was taken ill last week, with medical professionals later confirming the diagnosis.
Official Statement and Recovery Process
A spokesperson for GB News stated that Holmes "is currently responding well to treatment" and has requested privacy as he focuses on his recovery. The broadcaster added that colleagues and everyone at the channel wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming him back when he is ready to return.
Angelos Frangopoulos, chief executive of GB News, expressed support for Holmes, describing him as "a loved member of the GB News family" and confirming that the organisation is with him every step of the way during his recovery process.
Temporary Replacement and Broadcast Schedule
In Holmes' absence this week, Alex Armstrong will present GB News Breakfast alongside regular co-host Ellie Costello. Holmes typically presents the morning programme with Costello, forming one of the channel's most recognisable on-air partnerships.
History of Health Challenges
This latest health crisis follows years of medical issues for the veteran broadcaster. Holmes has long battled problems resulting from dislodged discs in his back, which previously impinged on his sciatic nerve and affected mobility in his right leg.
His medical history includes:
- Spinal surgery
- A double hip replacement
- Significant struggles with walking
- Periodic use of a mobility scooter
Previous Incidents and On-Air Accident
Holmes experienced two concerning falls in May last year that occurred just weeks apart. The former This Morning host was first taken to hospital after a fall at his home, then suffered another accident during a live broadcast.
During his GB News Breakfast show, viewers heard a crash while the camera focused on guest commentator Charlie Rowley. Co-host Ellie Costello could be heard saying "oh my gosh" off-screen, with Holmes urging Rowley to continue before the programme took a break.
Upon returning, Holmes explained: "Welcome back. Good to see you again. Especially good for me to see you again. I am still alive, yes. And they're very wonky wheels on chairs that we've got here... I've slipped and slid off mine there."
He revealed this incident occurred just two weeks after another fall in his bathroom that had hospitalised him, noting that the recent accident had aggravated the same injuries to his back, head, neck and shoulders.
Personal Impact and Relationship Strain
In a 2022 interview with The Sun newspaper, Holmes acknowledged that his persistent health problems had created strain in his marriage to Loose Women star Ruth Langsford. He stated that even his own family had grown tired of his complaints about constant pain and mobility limitations.
"It has caused some strain and Ruth is fed up of hearing about it and of me saying I can't walk the dog or tidy up, but I can't help it. It's agony," Holmes revealed at the time.
The couple, who had been together for more than a decade before marrying in 2010, announced their separation in 2024.
The broadcasting community and viewers are now sending their best wishes to Holmes as he focuses on recovery from this latest health challenge, with many expressing hope for his return to television screens in due course.
