Sports presenter Laura Woods is reported to be 'ok' after a distressing incident that saw her collapse live on television. The event occurred on Tuesday 2 December 2025 while she was fronting ITV's pre-match coverage for the England women's national football team's clash with Ghana.
On-Air Incident and Swift Response
The 38-year-old broadcaster, a familiar face to millions of football fans, fainted suddenly during the live broadcast. Pundits Ian Wright and Anita Asante, who were on set with her, quickly caught her to prevent a fall. In a moment of clear concern, ITV's directors hastily cut the transmission straight to a commercial break to deal with the private medical situation.
When the coverage returned, presenter Katie Shanahan was at the helm. She informed viewers that she had taken over as lead presenter at very short notice after Woods had been "taken ill". "As you have probably noticed we don't have the wonderful Laura Woods because she's just been taken ill but she's in very good hands so I'm stepping in at late notice," Shanahan stated.
Reassurance from Colleagues and Fiancé
The first public update on Woods' condition came from her fiancé, former Love Island star Adam Collard. He took to social media platform X to reassure concerned fans, writing: "Laura is all ok and with the right people. Thank you for all of your kind messages."
This was later echoed on air by stand-in presenter Katie Shanahan. As the half-time analysis began, with England leading 1-0, Shanahan shared a further update with the audience. After wishing Woods a speedy recovery, she added: "She's doing ok and we all send her our love."
Outpouring of Support and Praise
The shocking nature of the incident prompted an immediate wave of concern and support on social media. Fans expressed their shock and well-wishes for the popular presenter's health.
Viewers were also quick to commend the professional and compassionate response from those involved:
- Many praised Katie Shanahan for seamlessly taking over presenting duties with zero preparation.
- Arsenal legend and women's football advocate Ian Wright earned particular plaudits for his instinctive reaction in catching Woods, potentially preventing further injury.
One fan posted on X: "Full respect to the presenter who had to step in with zero notice after Laura Woods fainted. She's making it look easy." Another said: "Hope Laura Woods is OK? Well played Wrighty."
Laura Woods is one of ITV's leading sports broadcasters, having been the lead presenter for their coverage of the 2023 Women's World Cup and Euro 2025. She gave birth to her first child with Adam Collard in January 2025 and returned to television work in April of the same year.
