GB News and GMB in Turmoil: Eamonn Holmes faces SERIOUS health issue – Richard Madeley chosen as Replacement!

Bosses at GB News are said to be drawing up contingency plans should Eamonn Holmes need to step back due to his health woes.

Fans expressed concern this week after the presenter, 65, fell off his chair live on TV while anchoring his usual breakfast show. After the incident, Eamonn he insisted he was fine and blamed the incident on dodgy studio chairs with “very wonky wheels” but a source said the challenge is now facing “a serious production challenge” as it is not the first time the TV host has fallen.

Because of this, bosses are said to be considering Good Morning Britain anchor Richard Madeley, 69, as a potential stand-in for Eamonn. While “nothing’s confirmed” yet, Richard’s name is said to be “frequently mentioned” in talks.

Richard Madeley is reportedly being considered as a stand-in(Image: ITV)

A source told the Daily Mail following Eamonn’s recent falls: “He fell a few weeks ago too, just not during the broadcast. There’s a pattern here, and everyone’s concerned. Eamonn’s still sharp as a tack and a joy to watch, but it’s a serious production challenge now.”

Talking about Richard as a potential replacement, the source added: “Nothing’s confirmed, but they’d need someone with gravitas and live-TV experience if Eamonn needs to step back.” Eamonn has previously been open about his health conditions after suffering a series of setbacks in recent years.

The Northern Irish broadcaster has undergone a hip replacement, as well as more surgery due to three slipped discs. His health took a turn in 2022, but just one year later, he stated he could “no longer walk or look after himself.” Eamonn is often seen using a walking aid and suffers from chronic back pain.

Now, his friends have questioned why he is continuing to appear on TV, with a source saying he is “in pain all of the time.” They went on to add: “It’s so very sad to watch. Even though he has no feeling at all in his back at times, he is up at the crack of dawn and does three hours of live television, which he is, of course, very good at. “

Speaking to Mail Online, the source continued: “The viewers love him but you do have to wonder how long this is going to go on.” Last week, Eamonn left viewers of GB News concerned when he disappeared from his show leaving Ellie Costello to anchor the programme alone.

But it was Wednesday’s fall which sparked a commotion on the programme as anchor Charlie Rowley was lost for words when Eamonn fell from his chair. As a sudden crash was heard, Charlie said: “Oh my gosh.” While the cameras focused on Rowley, Eamonn was heard saying: “I’m fine, fine, fine, carry on, carry on,” seconds before the programme went to an advert break.

As the show returned following a break, Eamonn said: “I’m alive,” before hitting out at the “wonky” wheels on his studio chair. Speaking to Ellie, he said: “They’re very wonky wheels on chairs we’ve got here, as a matter of fact, we don’t really like the chairs here.” He also went on to explain he recently suffered a fall at home which left him in pain.

Eamonn said: “It was a shock for me because I had a fall two weeks ago in my bathroom that hospitalised me and that hit me right in the back. And this hit me again – right in the back. Really, really sore, really sore.” Speaking at the time on social media, he said: “An unexpected journey this morning ….. bit of a fall on the bathroom floor. Gosh it hurts. Thank you Ambulance crew,” alongside four clapping emojis.

The Mirror has contacted Eamonn Holmes’ representatives and GB News for comment.