GB News presenter Eamonn Holmes, 66, is currently recovering from a stroke he suffered in April, which led to his hospitalisation. His colleague and friend Anne Diamond provided an emotional health update at the TRIC awards on Tuesday night, where she accepted the Best News Programme award for their show.
Anne Diamond's Emotional Shout-Out
While on stage, Diamond acknowledged Holmes's absence, saying: 'There are a couple of people who would love to be here but can't for various reasons. Stephen Dixon who is my weekend co-presenter and Eamonn Holmes, who you know is not very well at the moment.' She added: 'But he's doing well. He's recovering and we're all hoping he'll be back very soon.'
Details of the Stroke and Hospitalisation
Holmes was hospitalised in April after being found 'slumped and out cold' at his home, according to reports. GB News issued a statement at the time: 'He is currently responding well to treatment. Eamonn has asked for privacy as he focuses on getting better. His colleagues and everyone at GB News wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming him back to the people's channel when he is ready to return.'
Family Reaction and Recovery
Holmes's son Declan, whom he shares with ex-wife Gabrielle Holmes, described the stroke as a 'real shock'. In an Instagram post, Declan wrote: 'I just wanted to share a quick message to say we hugely appreciate all the messages, it means a lot to us as a family. What happened came as a real shock, but Dad is doing okay given the circumstances and we're taking it one step at a time. For now, we're focused on him and keeping things steady around him.'
Holmes himself shared a message from his hospital bed in April, posting a photo of his two granddaughters with a handmade 'Get well soom' card. He captioned the post: 'As my beautiful Granddaughters put it so well - I will do my best to get well SOOM. Thank you for all of your many many good wishes, they give me strength.'
Previous Health Struggles
Holmes has faced numerous health issues in recent years. He underwent a double hip replacement in 2016, and in 2021 he suffered three slipped discs and a dislocated pelvis. He later had spinal surgery and now often uses a walker or wheelchair due to ongoing mobility issues. Speaking on Scott Wright's podcast Session7, Holmes opened up about the challenges: '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. I can't get up. I need help getting out of this chair. I have to have carers throughout the day. But once I'm sitting down, I can do everything. I understand my job, I understand what I'm supposed to do. But I understand it's tough for people to deal with you.'
Career Setback
In addition to his health struggles, Holmes reportedly lost his role on the board of the Manchester United Foundation. Filings at Companies House show him as 'resigned' from his director position, with reports suggesting an 'enforced break' from the role.
