Eamonn Holmes, 66, claps back at claims he was ‘falling asleep’ live on air while presenting GB News

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Eamonn Holmes has responded to recent suggestions that he appeared to be falling asleep while hosting GB News earlier this month.

The 66-year-old television host was taken off the air shortly after viewers became concerned about his speech and noticed him falling asleep on camera.

Eamonn clarified things while speaking at Hayley Palmer’s event, “An Audience With…”, held at the Hippodrome Casino in London on Wednesday.

He explained he was checking his microphone because they don’t have staff to help with technical issues like that on set.

‘Apparently I was sleeping? Whatever!’, according to The Mirror.

While presenting his show with Ellie Costello, Eamonn seemed to doze off and also fiddled with his microphone and phone.

This follows Eamonn’s difficult news about his health, where he said the television industry is prejudiced against older people and has lost interest in him now that he’s older and uses a wheelchair.

In 2016, the broadcaster had both hips replaced. However, in 2021, he experienced problems with his back, including three slipped discs and a dislocated pelvis.

He underwent significant spinal surgery the next year and has experienced a number of health problems since then.

The journalist recently discussed his current life and the everyday challenges he experiences both at work and personally, during an interview on Scott Wright’s podcast, Session7.

Host Scott asked him: ‘What does the future hold for Eamonn Holmes?’ 

Eamonn, who is dating Katie Alexander, 43, shared that he feels society judges people based on age. He also mentioned the difficulties he’s faced over the past two years while coping with illness and being in a wheelchair.

Honestly, I don’t believe television cares about someone like me. I’m unable to get up on my own and require assistance to leave this chair. I rely on caregivers to help me throughout the day.

Once I get settled and start working, I’m able to handle everything effectively. I know what my role is and what’s expected of me, but I realize it can be difficult for others to interact with me.

As someone who’s spent years observing how we all navigate daily life, I’ve noticed something really striking. It’s amazing – and frankly, disheartening – how often places like theaters, restaurants, and cinemas just aren’t set up to easily welcome people with disabilities. It’s a constant reminder of how much work we still have to do to make society truly inclusive for everyone.

I’m always impressed by the experience of going to the movies. However, if you have a disability, seating is often limited to the very back or the very front – there aren’t many good options in between.

‘And you think to yourself, why is this? Why does it have to be one or the other like that?’ 

Eamonn has been a huge name in the TV and showbiz industry for a number of years. 

He’s hosted a variety of TV programs, such as GMTV, Open Air, Jet Set, TV Scrabble, and How Do They Do That?

Between 2006 and 2021, the journalist worked alongside his ex-wife, Ruth Langsford, as a co-host on This Morning. They announced their separation in 2024 after being married for 14 years.

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2026-03-26 04:15