Eamonn Holmes Set for TV Comeback Following Stroke
Veteran television presenter Eamonn Holmes is poised to return to GB News, signaling a significant step in his recovery following a recent stroke. The 66-year-old presenter has been undergoing intensive care since falling ill in April, which has temporarily halted his extensive 45-year broadcasting career. His girlfriend, Katie Alexander, 44, has remained a constant presence by his side throughout this challenging period.
GB News Award Win Amid Presenter’s Absence
The TRIC Awards, a prestigious event celebrating entertainment figures, recently took place at Grosvenor House in London. While many stars attended, Eamonn Holmes’ absence was noted. For the past three years, Holmes has been a recipient of the Best News Programme award at the ceremony for GB News’ popular Breakfast Show, decided by public vote. This year, his colleagues accepted the award on his behalf, with Holmes continuing his recovery under specialist medical supervision.
Insider Confirms Holmes’ Imminent Return to GB News
Despite speculation regarding financial settlements to cover his ongoing care costs, confirmed reports indicate that Eamonn Holmes will indeed be returning to the airwaves at GB News. An internal source stated, “Eamonn is one of the channel’s most popular presenters. I can categorically say he WILL be coming back, and any suggestion otherwise is wrong.” The source emphasized the need for Holmes to focus on his health, adding, “For now, Eamonn is being given the time to heal. He’s been through a lot and needs this time to recover. Once he’s back on his feet, he’ll be welcomed back with open arms.”
Colleagues Express Support and Hope for Swift Return
Holmes, who co-hosts the breakfast show with Ellie Costello, has not appeared on screen since March 12. His planned return in April was postponed due to his stroke. At the TRIC Awards, former ITV co-host Anne Diamond accepted the award and offered a heartfelt message to Holmes. “There are a couple of people who would love to be here but can’t for various reasons,” Diamond told the audience. “Stephen Dixon, who is my weekend co-presenter and Eamonn Holmes, who you know is not very well at the moment. But he’s doing well. He’s recovering, and we’re all hoping he’ll be back very soon.” Alex Armstrong has been filling in for Holmes on the morning show, receiving praise from Costello for his contributions.
Future Slot and Personal Health Update
The specific role Eamonn Holmes will take upon his return – whether hosting the breakfast show or a new slot – remains to be determined. Earlier this month, Holmes shared a photo from his hospital bed with his girlfriend Katie, expressing his eagerness to return to his professional life. He conveyed, “I can’t wait to be out of this gown and back in a suit and tie. Watch this space. I’ll be back after this break.”
Holmes’ health challenges are not new. In 2021, he experienced severe back issues, including three slipped discs and a dislocated pelvis, leading to wheelchair use and daily care. Reflecting on his condition in March, he stated, “Well, obviously I’ve been better. I’ve got this back and paralysis problem which has been with me now for three years. It’s terrible to come to terms with. The thing is, nobody seems to know what the problem is, so I just stick with it, and hopefully they’ll find a cure one day.”
Legal Proceedings Over Marital Assets
In parallel with his health recovery, Eamonn Holmes is also navigating legal proceedings related to his divorce from his former wife, Ruth Langsford. The couple, who were married for 14 years and together for 27, are reportedly heading to court in November to finalize a financial settlement. Langsford is understood to wish to retain their marital home in Weybridge, Surrey, purchased 12 years ago for £3.6 million.
