Alison Hammond hospitalized after live exit from 'This Morning' due to heart palpitations

Key points

• Hammond left 'This Morning' live on October 2, 2026, after clutching her chest during a segment on pets.
• Co-host Dermot O'Leary informed viewers she was 'feeling a little unwell' and would not return to the show that day.
• Hammond posted a video from a hospital bed, stating she was getting her 'old ticker checked out' due to a palpitation.
• She believed the episode was likely a panic attack and assured fans she was 'fine' and 'rocking it' despite the scare.
• Hammond thanked viewers for their messages and apologized for leaving the show, noting she would never normally do so.

Background

Alison Hammond has been a familiar face on UK morning television since cohosting 'This Morning' on Fridays in 2021. She also cohosts 'The Great British Bake Off' with Noel Fielding, a role she has held since 2023. Previously, she gained fame as a contestant on 'Big Brother UK' in 2002 and appeared on 'I'm A Celebrity' and 'Strictly Come Dancing.' The BBC noted that Hammond and O'Leary won a National Television Award for best daytime programme in 2022. This incident follows earlier coverage of her hospitalization for a heart check, which was widely reported on October 3, 2026.

How outlets are covering it

USA TODAY and BBC both reported that Hammond experienced a heart-related health scare during the live broadcast, with BBC emphasizing the palpitation and Hammond's own words about a possible panic attack. Nine.com.au highlighted the abrupt exit and the concern among viewers, while RTE.ie focused on the live nature of the incident and Hammond's social media update. All sources agree on the key facts: Hammond left the show, was hospitalized, and later assured fans she was fine. The BBC and RTE.ie provided more detail on Hammond's career background, while USA TODAY and Nine.com.au focused on the immediate health scare and her Instagram update.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the risks of live television and the importance of health checks for public figures. Hammond's quick response and transparency helped reassure fans and maintain public trust. The event also underscores the role of social media in providing real-time updates during unexpected health scares, allowing celebrities to communicate directly with their audience. It serves as a reminder of the physical demands of live broadcasting and the need for proper medical attention when health issues arise on air.

What to watch

Hammond is expected to recover and return to her duties, though no specific date has been announced. The BBC reported that she returned home from hospital 17 hours after the incident, suggesting a quick recovery. Future coverage may focus on her return to 'This Morning' and 'The Great British Bake Off,' as well as any further health updates. The incident may also lead to increased discussions about the health and safety of TV presenters during live broadcasts.