When GB News Breakfast won a Television and Radio Industries Club (TRIC) award recently, many expected it to be a moment of celebration.
But as Eamonn Holmes wheeled himself onto the stage at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel to accept the prize, the atmosphere took a surprising turn.
Instead of applause, boos and heckles erupted from the audience, casting a shadow over what should have been a proud moment.
The Jeering Was More About the Channel Than the Man
The jeers started immediately after host Dan Walker announced the win for GB News Breakfast and only quieted when Eamonn began speaking from his wheelchair.
Insiders close to the channel say the crowd’s disapproval wasn’t aimed at Eamonn personally but at GB News itself — a right-leaning network that had just beaten rivals from ITV and the BBC for the award.
Colleagues Left Feeling Overlooked and Frustrated
Even so, the drama wasn’t limited to the audience.
Behind the scenes, Eamonn’s co-hosts and colleagues at GB News were reportedly fuming.
Many felt it was unfair that Eamonn was the sole speaker representing the show, especially since Stephen Dixon hosts the program four days a week while Eamonn only presents three.
Ellie Costello, another weekday co-host, and Anne Diamond, the weekend host who skipped the ceremony altogether, also didn’t get a chance to speak.
This fed into a growing feeling of resentment about a “blokey” culture at the station, where male hosts seemingly get all the spotlight.
“It Was All About Eamonn,” Say Insiders
One source shared that the award speech felt very much like a solo performance by Eamonn.
“He talked until Dan Walker finally took the microphone away,” they said.
“Stephen, Ellie, Anne – none of them got recognition, even though they all put in a lot of work. It really made people’s blood boil.”
They added that Anne Diamond’s absence was noticeable.
“She’s been a TV legend as long as Eamonn, and you wonder what would have happened if she’d been there.”
Eamonn’s Long Career and High Profile at GB News
Eamonn Holmes joined GB News in 2022 after leaving ITV’s Good Morning show, where he was reportedly let go after bosses grew tired of him.
The 65-year-old Northern Irish presenter is said to earn more than any other breakfast show host at GB News, with estimates placing his salary at over £300,000 per year.
Despite his star status, it seems some at GB News are quietly plotting to replace him.
“Some people despise him,” one insider said.
“He might be loved by viewers, but behind the scenes, opinions are very different.”
Navigating Health Challenges and Support from GB News
Eamonn faces serious mobility challenges after undergoing a double hip replacement and surgery on slipped spinal discs.
The resulting pain and limited sensation in his lower back mean he relies on a wheelchair and assistance getting on set.
GB News reportedly goes to great lengths to support him, ensuring he can continue to appear on camera despite these difficulties.
Financial Struggles and Personal Life Turmoil
Friends say Eamonn needs the income due to a prolonged tax dispute with HMRC, which has drained his finances.
Last year, he even sold a second home in Belfast to cover some of the debt, lamenting that the taxman has “taken everything.”
On a personal front, Eamonn is navigating a difficult divorce from his ex-wife and former co-host Ruth Langsford.
However, his relationship with girlfriend Katie Alexander, 22 years younger, has brought him some happiness amid the turmoil.
Recent Turmoil at GB News Breakfast
The awards night drama came amid a tough few weeks for GB News Breakfast.
The Mail on Sunday revealed an ongoing HR investigation into an incident where a young producer was bruised on set.
The network tried unsuccessfully to silence the story with legal threats.
There have also been on-air mishaps: Eamonn fell from his chair during a live interview, causing visible concern, and on another occasion disappeared from the desk for nearly 40 minutes during the broadcast, leaving co-host Ellie Costello to carry the show alone.
Staff Changes and Rumors of Shake-Ups
At the end of January, Isabel Webster, a long-time co-host and friend of Eamonn, was suddenly dismissed.
Some speculate Eamonn had a hand in her exit, but insiders point to a clash over her refusal to increase her days on air from three to five.
Meanwhile, GB News bosses have reportedly been eyeing ITV’s daytime hosts like Richard Madeley amid potential shake-ups there.
Stephen Dixon might also be considered to take on more weekday hosting duties.
What’s Next for Eamonn and GB News?
Despite the controversies and internal tensions, one thing is clear: Eamonn Holmes is a survivor.
With decades of experience weathering industry storms, insiders warn against counting him out just yet.
But with growing unrest behind the scenes and fresh talent circling, the future of the GB News Breakfast show and its star host remains uncertain.
Whatever happens next, it’s bound to be an interesting ride.