GB News presenter Stephen Dixon has taken time off from his breakfast show duties due to complications stemming from his Type 1 diabetes. Dixon, who stepped in to host the show while Eamonn Holmes recovers from a stroke, announced he had "finally crashed" after years of demanding work schedules.
A statement released by Dixon's husband, Daniel, on his Instagram account indicated that the 52-year-old broadcaster had been placed on his first sick note at the age of 50. "As many know, Stephen has lived with T1 Diabetes since the age of 17," the statement read. "He's been a workaholic for 35 years, spending 25+ of them on the 3am–10am shift, but he has finally crashed."
GB News has expressed support for Dixon, who is expected to return to the airwaves next week. Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Symptoms can include frequent urination, extreme thirst, fatigue, and weight loss.
Dixon has previously spoken about the challenges of managing his diabetes. In 2023, he described the constant monitoring and calculations required as a "constant drain." He expressed a desire to enjoy simple pleasures, like eating pizza or indulging during the holidays, without the added concern of how it might affect his blood glucose levels. He also mentioned the anxiety of potential "crashes" during physical activities like walking or swimming.
Eamonn Holmes, 66, a four-time father, has been absent from his GB News breakfast show, which he co-hosts with Ellie Costello, since March 11. He suffered a stroke in April, shortly before he was scheduled to return to presenting duties. A GB News spokesperson confirmed the stroke and stated that Holmes was responding well to treatment and requested privacy during his recovery.
Diabetes is a lifelong condition characterized by high blood sugar levels. Type 1 diabetes, for which there is no known prevention, occurs when the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells. Type 2 diabetes, which is more common, develops when the body doesn't produce enough insulin or the body's cells don't respond properly to insulin. Lifestyle factors like healthy eating, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes.