Eamonn Holmes, the veteran broadcaster known for his work on GB News, has sparked concern among fans and colleagues after he mysteriously disappeared from the breakfast show during a live broadcast this week. The incident occurred nearly three hours into the program, leaving his co-host, Ellie Costello, to present solo. Holmes, who is 65 years old and a father of four, has been open about his ongoing health struggles, which include limited mobility following a double hip operation and surgery for three slipped discs.
Holmes has described his chronic back pain as "unbearable," revealing that he can no longer walk or take care of himself. This alarming situation has prompted friends and colleagues to voice their worries about his ability to continue with the demanding early-morning schedule required for the breakfast show. A source close to the situation told the Mail, "The talk of GB News last week was Eamonn vanishing. He is much loved there – but you look at him and you wonder how much longer he can do this for."
As Holmes's health continues to deteriorate, the source described watching him struggle as "heartbreaking," noting that he often appears sad and in pain. "He should be at home resting but instead he's up at the crack of dawn to start the show. He's 65 years old, he looks so frail. You can't help but feel sorry for him," the source remarked. They added, "You literally never see him walk; he gets wheeled into the studio and then onto the set. It works, but he looks terribly uncomfortable, then he gets wheeled off home and you just hope he goes for a really long sleep."
Holmes's recent health update has also been concerning. Last month, he took to Instagram to share his struggles, admitting that he is in pain "even when the sun shines." He expressed his determination to overcome his disc immobility, stating, "Sometimes I feel I’ll never beat this disc immobility but I’m determined to have a life. So pray for me, help me or get out of the way social media haters." This candid admission has resonated with fans who are worried for his well-being.
In addition to his health challenges, Holmes has faced personal upheaval. In December 2024, he announced his divorce from Ruth Langsford, with whom he had been married for 14 years. The couple released a joint statement confirming the end of their marriage, which has undoubtedly added to the stress Holmes is experiencing. Following the split, he has moved on with Katie Alexander, a relationship counselor who is 22 years his junior. A source has described their relationship as "wonderful," stating, "They do lovely things together despite Eamonn's obvious mobility issues." However, it has also been noted that he struggles to enjoy life fully, even with Alexander by his side.
As Holmes continues to navigate these personal and health challenges, his absence from the show has not gone unnoticed. Fans took to social media to express their concern, with one asking, "Where did Eamonn disappear to this morning? Hope he's alright." His colleagues have also noted his sporadic absences, as he missed shows in January and March this year due to his ongoing health issues.
Meanwhile, amidst the concerns surrounding Holmes, there was a lighter moment during the broadcast this week. Eamonn congratulated his co-star Ellie Costello on her recent marriage to Gerard Durkan. Costello, who was absent from the show on April 14 due to her wedding, had tied the knot at Chelsea Old Town Hall in London on April 12. Holmes welcomed stand-in presenter Miriam Cates to the show, sharing his excitement about Costello's nuptials. "Absolute delight and pleasure to have you, Miriam Cates, here today. This is the first time we’ve worked together, but because Mrs. Ellie has just gone and got herself married," he said, adding that Ellie would have a bigger celebration in the summer.
Costello, who joined the GB News team in December 2024, has been a popular addition to the breakfast show. Her wedding was a small affair, with many colleagues unable to attend, yet Holmes made sure to acknowledge her special day on air. He remarked on Ellie’s choice of a short wedding dress and hinted at her plans for a larger celebration later in the year. This moment of joy provided a brief respite from the concerns surrounding Holmes.
As the future remains uncertain for Eamonn Holmes, his fans and colleagues continue to rally around him, hoping for improvement in his health. The situation serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those in the public eye, particularly when dealing with personal and health-related struggles. With his friends expressing concern and the public's worries growing, many are left to wonder how much longer Holmes can continue in his role on GB News.
With the support of his loved ones and the understanding of his audience, Holmes remains a beloved figure in broadcasting, and his journey will be closely followed by fans eager to see him overcome these significant obstacles.
