TV presenter Eamonn Holmes has sparked widespread concern among viewers after appearing to briefly fall asleep and struggle with his speech during a live broadcast on GB News.
The 66-year-old broadcaster was hosting Breakfast with Eamonn and Ellie on Wednesday alongside co-presenter Ellie Costello when the worrying moment unfolded toward the end of the programme.
During an interview with Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones MP, viewers noticed Holmes sitting quietly with his eyes closed as Ellie led the discussion about the Mandelson files. At one point, he appeared disengaged from the conversation and later fumbled with a pen, seemingly struggling to place the lid back on.
The veteran journalist was also seen adjusting his microphone and scrolling through his mobile phone while the interview continued.
Despite the unusual moment, Holmes closed the show as normal, telling viewers: “We’ll see you bright and early again in the morning. Whatever you are up to, have a good day!”
Fans voice concern online
Soon after the broadcast, worried viewers flooded social media with messages urging the network to check on the presenter.
One viewer wrote: “@GBNEWS Please help Eamonn Holmes. He’s obviously struggling, falling asleep this morning. Slurring his words. The guy needs medical assistance!!”
Another added: “#GBN Help Eamonn Holmes. The man is falling asleep on GB News this morning!! This is quite cruel…”
According to a source who spoke to The Sun, concerns about Holmes’ health have been growing behind the scenes. The insider said it hadn’t gone unnoticed that Eamonn had been struggling more recently, and that during the broadcast he appeared to be falling asleep on air and slurring his words, prompting numerous messages from viewers.
GB News has not publicly commented on the incident.
A difficult health battle
The moment comes amid a long and difficult health journey for Holmes, who has been open about the physical challenges he faces.
In 2016 he underwent a double hip replacement. Five years later, in 2021, he suffered three slipped discs and a dislocated pelvis. The following year he underwent major spinal surgery, but his recovery has been complicated and he now uses a wheelchair.
Speaking recently on Scott Wright’s Session7 podcast, Holmes candidly described how dramatically his life has changed.
He said he often feels the television industry has moved on without him, admitting: “I don’t know what the future holds. Society’s ageist. I’m sick. I’m in a wheelchair. That’s been horrendous to deal with for two years.”
Holmes explained that his mobility is now extremely limited, saying: “I can’t get up. I need help getting out of this chair. I have to have carers throughout the day.”
However, he insisted that when seated he is still able to do his job, adding: “But once I’m sitting down, I can do everything. I understand my job. I understand what I’m supposed to do.”
Life beyond the camera
Holmes has been one of Britain’s most recognisable television figures for decades, presenting programmes including GMTV, Open Air, Jet Set, TV Scrabble and How Do They Do That?
He also co-hosted ITV’s This Morning alongside Ruth Langsford from 2006 until 2021. The couple later announced their separation in 2024 after 14 years of marriage.
The presenter is now in a relationship with Katie Alexander, and has continued working despite his ongoing health struggles. Since 2022 he has fronted Breakfast with Eamonn and Isabel on GB News.
Holmes has previously spoken about the frustrations of living with a disability, even revealing during a live TV rant that simple things like booking accessible hotel rooms can become difficult.
He said: “I want to talk to people and explain I’ve got special needs. I need a bathroom with bars so I can hold and stand up in the shower… but you just cannot speak to anybody. Nobody cares.”
For now, fans remain hopeful that the latest on-air incident was only a momentary lapse — but many say it highlights the enormous toll the veteran broadcaster’s health struggles may be taking.
