Eamonn Holmes’ friends are said to be concerned about the broadcaster after he ‘disappeared’ from his GB News show this week. Nearly three hours into the breakfast programme, the dad-of-four, 65, went missing from the screen and failed to return, leaving his new co-host, Ellie Costello, 31, to anchor alone.
The star has spoken candidly about his ill health and limited mobility following a double hip replacement and surgery for three slipped discs. He has also described his chronic back pain as ‘unbearable’ and admitted that he can ‘no longer walk or look after himself’. Privately, his pals and colleagues are now said to be expressing their concern, with some reportedly wondering how much longer the respected presenter can keep getting up at 4.30am to present his breakfast show.
Speaking to the Mail, a source said: “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.”
Claiming it was “heartbreaking” to watch Eamonn in such discomfort, they added: “He looks so sad so much of the time. He looks like he’s in pain and it’s awful to watch.
“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.
“You literally never see him walk, he gets wheeled into the studio and then on to 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.”
Eamonn, who announced his divorce from Loose Women star, Ruth Langsford last year after 14 years of marriage, has missed other GB News shows this year.
The presenter skipped his programme once in January and again in March. His reason for not being on the news channel this week was not explained as one fan asked: “Where did Eamonn disappear to this morning? Hope he’s alright.”
After splitting up with Ruth, Eamonn moved on with Katie Alexander, who is 22 years his junior. The couple were papped in Ibiza last year – with Eamonn in his mobility scooter – as they enjoyed all the sun-kissed island had to offer.
Relationship councillor, Katie 43, who met the Northern Irishman online, is said to be “wonderful” to Eamonn, with a source saying: “They do lovely things together despite Eamonn’s obvious mobility issues”.
However, claiming the presenter is sadly ‘struggling’ to enjoy his life, they added: “He really tries to enjoy his life, but it’s a struggle, even with Katie at his side”.
The Mirror has contacted Eamonn’s rep for comment on this story.
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