The red carpet was rolled out, the cameras were flashing, and The TRIC Awards 2025 once again delivered an evening of celebration for the British television and radio industry. Held annually by the Television and Radio Industries Club, the event brings together the country’s most beloved on-screen talent.
Despite the glitz and glamour, the absence of one familiar face Eamonn Holmes was not overlooked. The veteran presenter, known for his decades on British TV and his current role with GB News, was missing from this year’s TRIC Awards ceremony, despite the channel’s strong presence and multiple nominations.
GB News Steps Into the Spotlight
It was still a big night for GB News, which has rapidly become one of the most talked-about names in UK broadcasting. The channel was nominated for the Best News Program, and national reporter Charlie Peters received individual recognition on the shortlist.
Several of GB News’ brightest stars, including Ellie Costello, Bev Turner, Ben Leo, and Miriam Cates, attended the ceremony, representing the network with pride and charm on the red carpet. Following the network’s win in 2024, when GB News Breakfast took home the Best News Program title, expectations were high for a repeat victory.
But even as the team smiled for cameras, it was clear that one person was dearly missed. Eamonn Holmes, who attended last year with the aid of a walking stick, was unable to join his colleagues this time due to ongoing health issues.
Holmes’ Health Journey: A Battle With Pain
Eamonn Holmes, 65, has been courageously open about his health struggles over the past few years. Since undergoing a spinal operation in 2022 followed by a double hip replacement, he has battled immobility and chronic pain, often appearing on air in a wheelchair or using walking aids.
Just three weeks prior to The TRIC Awards, Holmes shared a deeply moving post on social media. Uploading a throwback photo of himself presenting in Belfast, he wrote:
“This pic tells me this was three years ago in my home city of Belfast… It actually made me sorrowful looking at it because I could walk then and can’t now. I pray to God and the new Docs that I am seeing that all will change and change soon. Please think of me.”
The heartfelt message drew an outpouring of support from fans and industry peers. In a previous update in March, he admitted, “Even when the sun shines there’s pain… I’m determined to have a life. So pray for me, help me, or get out of the way social media haters.”
It was clear that Holmes had hoped for recovery. However, his absence at The TRIC Awards signals just how challenging this phase of life remains.
A Difficult Setback Behind the Scenes
Holmes’ absence also follows a worrying incident last month during a live GB News broadcast. As the camera focused on commentator Charlie Rowley, a loud crash was heard off-screen. Co-host Ellie Costello could be heard exclaiming, “Oh my gosh!” before the programme cut to an extended commercial break.
Reports later confirmed that Holmes had suffered a fall behind the scenes—a moment that alarmed fans and highlighted just how precarious his health has become. Despite his determination and desire to remain in the public eye, his body continues to struggle.
It is this ongoing battle that kept him from appearing at The TRIC Awards this year, even as his colleagues stood proudly in the spotlight. For those who admire and respect Holmes, his absence brought a sense of poignancy to an otherwise jubilant occasion.
Conclusion: A Night of Celebration, and Reflection
The TRIC Awards continue to shine as one of British media’s most cherished honours, recognising excellence in television and radio across the UK. GB News’s strong presence and nominations reflected its growing influence, while stars like Charlie Peters and Ellie Costello kept the channel in the headlines.
But for many, the night wasn’t quite the same without Eamonn Holmes. His candidness about pain, resilience in the face of adversity, and decades-long presence in British broadcasting made him more than just a guest; he became an integral part of the industry.
Despite the ceremony continuing, the absence of Eamonn Holmes was deeply felt by fans and colleagues alike. Hopefully, his path to recovery will see him back on the red carpet for The TRIC Awards 2026.
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