Eamonn Holmes' health 'may impact financial aspect of Ruth Langsford divorce', says expert

Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford were married for 14 years before the former couple confirmed they were getting a divorce over the weekend. Following the end of the former This Morning co-stars’ 27-year relationship, an expert from a renowned law firm specialising in divorce and family law has explained how Eamonn’s past health issues could affect the financial aspects of their future divorce proceedings. 

GB News presenter Eamonn, 64, and Loose Women star Ruth, also 64, have confirmed their separation and it is understood the pair are keen to maintain a friendship, having shared the spotlight at ITV for many years. Things haven’t always been easy for the couple, with Eamonn’s health battles - including chronic back pain and other serious injuries - undoubtedly making life harder. 

Honor Giles, a partner and mediation specialist from Maguire Family Law, has discussed how Eamonn’s health issues might lead to certain considerations during divorce proceedings. She told Express.co.uk: “After a 27-year relationship - 14 years of which they were married for – people are likely to be shocked to hear about the separation of Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes.

“For most people, getting divorced is a private matter but Ruth and Eamonn have the added complication of media attention on their separation. Both are aged 64 years old, and it has been widely reported that Eamonn has been suffering with health issues in recent times. 

“As part of resolving financial matters, careful consideration will likely be given to their respective health, earning capacity, and retirement provision moving forwards. These are key considerations for all divorcing couples (along with many other factors) but are often particularly important for those who are closer to traditional retirement age at the time of divorcing.

She then elaborated further: “It has been widely reported that in recent years, Eamonn has struggled with his health, including chronic back pain, spinal surgery and a shoulder injury.

“Health concerns may impact how much an individual is able to work or what type of work they are able to do. 

“In turn, that may impact what they are likely to be able to earn as income in the future. 

“This is relevant when thinking about how needs/outgoings will be met for each person moving forwards and as part of considering issues such as spousal maintenance. 

“Health needs may also play a factor in what type of housing an individual requires, to include whether capital costs need to be taken into account for housing to be adapted."

She added: “As Ruth and Eammon are both approaching traditional retirement age, as part of resolving financial matters on divorce, careful thought will be given to considering how their income needs will be met moving forward and in retirement. 

“Depending on the types of assets available, this may involve a pension sharing order and/or considering how property, investments, business assets, savings etc can be dealt with. 

“Often, this involves independent financial advisors becoming a part of the professional team advising each person, to consider options and the practical financial impact in retirement, so that a plan can be prepared moving forwards.”

Following their split announcement, Eamonn expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of support he and Ruth have received so far. 

Earlier this week, he told GB News viewers: "Just before we move on we'd just like to thank people for your support for Ruth and I over the last few days as to the news of our separation.

"Your support for both of us is very much appreciated."

Eamonn and Ruth share one adult son Jack, 22, while Eamonn also has adult children from a previous relationship.