Eamonn Holmes says girlfriend Katie is ‘perfect tonic’ during defiant health update

Veteran broadcaster Eamonn Holmes has opened up about his ongoing health struggles with wheelchair use and spinal pain, crediting partner Katie Alexander as his rock

Eamonn Holmes has struck back at critics questioning his health – declaring his partner Katie is “the perfect tonic” as he faces daily battles with pain management and wheelchair life.

The seasoned presenter, 65, spoke candidly about his difficulties, disclosing he’s dealing with back problems that have impacted his mobility, but insists he won’t allow it to control him. Holmes went under the knife for major spinal surgery in 2022 to address years of agony from herniated discs and related complications, an operation he’s acknowledged “went wrong” and resulted in restricted movement.

“I may be physically struggling, but mentally I’m still very much on the ball,” he declared defiantly. “I honestly don’t feel any different from when I started on TV over 40 years ago.”

Eamonn, who has been photographed using a wheelchair recently, revealed he now finds it difficult to walk for prolonged periods and needs support with everyday mobility, with a chauffeur available to assist.

“I do find it hard to walk long distances and on occasion need a bit of help to get dressed,” he explained. “I have friends who regularly check in and a driver to get me in and out of the car.”

But despite the obstacles, he maintains he is “giving it my all” – dismissing detractors who have even suggested this week that he dozed off during broadcasts. “The frustrating thing is, people see the photos of me in vulnerable moments… but I am working. I’m giving it my all. You’ve got to keep going, and I love what I do,” he said.

And it’s his 43-year-old partner Katie Alexander – a child psychologist from Yorkshire – who has become his anchor. Following his separation from wife Ruth Langsford after 14 years of marriage, Eamonn has discovered contentment, with Katie offering a soothing refuge from the strains of his health struggles and prominent career.

“She’s the perfect tonic,” he said, disclosing the couple enjoy leisurely countryside strolls together – a stark contrast to the gym workouts he previously depended on before his back problems deteriorated.

“There was a time when I could get up and go on the treadmill… but I can’t do that now because of my back. I have arthritis in my spine and am in pain, but going on gentle walks in the countryside with Katie is the perfect tonic.

The pair, who both adore food and travel, have grown closer through their shared enthusiasm for Chinese cuisine, with Eamonn even arranging a Hong Kong trip for them to discover its renowned street food culture. “Katie is the same – she absolutely loves it,” he said.

“When you share the same tastes, it really brings you closer. We’ve definitely bonded over our love of food – it’s become part of our connection.”There was a time when I could get up and go on the treadmill… but I can’t do that now because of my back. I have arthritis in my spine and am in pain, but going on gentle walks in the countryside with Katie is the perfect tonic.

The couple, who share a love of food and travel, have grown close over their mutual passion for Chinese cuisine, with Eamonn even planning a trip to Hong Kong for them to explore its famous street food scene.

“When we sit down for dinner, we talk about the same things, have the same interests, and that same sense of curiosity and adventure. It’s more than just flavour – it’s about being on the same wavelength. And I think that’s why we work so well together.”

Despite their flourishing relationship, the couple maintain separate homes, with Eamonn residing in Kingston-upon-Thames in Surrey whilst Katie remains in Yorkshire, as they navigate their romance following his divorce.

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