“I’m on Borrowed Time and Not OK” Eamonn Holmes Opens Up About Health Struggles and Divorce from Ruth Langsford

Broadcaster Eamonn Holmes has publicly shared his struggles following his recent separation from Ruth Langsford, revealing that he is “not OK” during his first public appearance alone and utilizing a high-tech wheelchair. Spoke to The Mirror at the TRIC Awards, where he was nominated for Best News Presenter and Best News Broadcast, Holmes expressed his emotional and physical difficulties amid the end of their 14-year marriage.

“It’s too early to say but I hope we can still be friends,” Holmes stated, reflecting on the possibility of maintaining a friendship with Langsford post-divorce. The separation comes as Holmes also confronts significant health challenges, including chronic back pain that necessitated his use of a wheelchair at the event. He disclosed his acute awareness of his mortality, noting, “I feel like I’m on borrowed time,” a feeling intensified by the memory of his father, who died of a heart attack at 65—Holmes is currently 64.

Holmes shared that he had considered not attending the ceremony due to his pain, but decided to go, supported by his new wheelchair equipped with various helpful features. “I wasn’t going to come, but I’ve got this new chair with all these gadgets,” he explained via The Independent. Despite the physical challenges, Holmes remains committed to his career and public life. His program, GB News Breakfast, was named the Best News Program at the awards, a moment of professional recognition amid personal trials.

Discussing his health more broadly, Holmes has been candid about the impact of his condition on his daily life. “I get very resentful that I’m not the way I used to be but I get on with it,” he admitted. His determination to overcome his difficulties is evident, as he added, “I work hard at trying to walk. It’s very hard to get through a normal day but I have help from people around me.”

The broadcaster had previously acknowledged Langsford’s support throughout their marriage and during his health struggles. In a statement last month, they announced their divorce: “Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes have confirmed their marriage is over and they are in the process of divorcing.” Holmes expressed gratitude for the public support they’ve received during this challenging time: “We’d just like to thank people for your support for Ruth and I over the last few days as to the news of our separation. Your support for both of us is very much appreciated.”

At the TRIC Awards, Christine McGuinness was seen offering Holmes support, holding his hand and sharing a comforting embrace. Holmes also engaged with his followers on Instagram, sharing a snapshot from the event and reflecting a sense of normalcy amid his personal upheavals: “Whatever the results, a nice lunch awaits #Tricawards,” he posted, showing resilience in the face of his ongoing challenges.