Photos of veteran TV anchor Eamonn Holmes enjoying cozy moments with his new girlfriend have created quite a stir online. Fans wonder if this relationship is truly romantic, or if there’s something else going on.
Eamonn Holmes, 64, has been seen out and about with his new girlfriend for months. Their relationship has left many curious about this new chapter in his life. With his health struggles in the spotlight, Eamonn has had a tough year, making his new romance an even bigger topic of conversation.
But it’s not just their affectionate public appearances that have people talking. Rumors about their relationship’s dynamic, including questions about his girlfriend’s role in his life, have fueled endless speculation. To add to the buzz, their recent lavish European getaway, which seemed like the perfect romantic escape, may not be what it seemed at all.
A New Chapter in Eamonn’s Life
Holmes’ new relationship with Katie Alexander, a 42-year-old relationship counselor, raised eyebrows from the start. Alexander, 22 years younger than the TV presenter, entered the spotlight shortly after his high-profile split from Ruth Langsford.
The timing was enough to spark rumors, especially considering that Holmes and Langsford had been married for over a decade and together for 27 years.
Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes pose on June 8, 2010 | Source: Getty Images
While the pair seem happy, this isn’t the first time Alexander has been in a relationship with a significant age gap. Before meeting Holmes, she was in a long-term relationship with Michael Devine, a retired coach driver nearly 40 years her senior, with whom she has a son, Ben, now 22.
Devine said it was Ben who confirmed his mother’s relationship with Holmes. According to the timeline, Holmes was still married to Langsford. Devine, now 81, expressed his support for his ex-partner’s new relationship, even saying he’s glad she found love again.
But despite his blessings, the public remains skeptical about Holmes and Alexander’s romance. What mostly fuelled these reactions was the fact that Holmes was still legally married when the relationship became public.
Public Reactions to Their Relationship
Holmes and Alexander’s relationship has sparked a lot of discussion online with fans and social media users weighing in. Many were quick to comment on the age difference, with some questioning the nature of their relationship.
YouTube users wondered, “Are you sure she is not his carer?” while others made similar remarks like, “She looks like his carer, come on that’s all she is.”
The speculation wasn’t limited to YouTube, with Instagram users echoing similar sentiments, asking, “Is she his carer?” and “Looks like he’s got a younger carer.”
Longtime fans of Holmes and Langsford were also vocal, with some expressing disappointment.
Comments like, “Ruth is beautiful, what on earth she saw in him, I will never know” and “He moved on quick” reflected the shock many felt about Holmes’ quick transition into a new relationship.
Others took a more critical tone, with remarks such as, “I really can’t see why women fall over him,” and, “Wonder what she sees in a multi-millionaire.” Another one of Langsford’s supporters also chimed in, saying, “Our Ruth is so glamorous, she deserves better.”
The Romantic Getaway That Raised Eyebrows
Holmes and Alexander’s relationship gained the public’s attention during a luxurious European cruise aboard the Scarlet Lady, a ship operated by Virgin Voyages. What initially appeared to be an expensive romantic trip turned out to be something entirely different.
It was revealed that the cruise was part of a sponsorship deal, with Holmes serving as an ambassador for Not Just Travel, a holiday company. In exchange for promoting the brand on social media, the trip didn’t cost Holmes a penny.
This revelation led to further speculation about the nature of the relationship. Some suggested that the romantic gesture wasn’t as heartfelt as it seemed. According to a source, “While it looked like Eamonn had whisked Katie off on a no-expense-spared trip, it didn’t actually cost him anything.”
Holmes reportedly filmed promotional content during the trip, turning what could have been a private getaway into part of his professional obligations.
The trip was an opportunity for the couple to spend time together as they embarked on their second holiday since Holmes’ separation from Langsford.
Their first was a visit to Belfast in August. However, this cruise seemed like a more glamorous chapter in their budding relationship, even as Holmes dealt with his ongoing health issues.
Health Struggles and Public Appearances
Despite the excitement surrounding his new relationship, Holmes has been dealing with serious health issues. Over the years, he has undergone multiple surgeries, including hip replacements and spinal surgery, to manage chronic pain caused by slipped discs and other complications.
His health challenges have been visible during public appearances, as he is often seen using a walking frame or even a mobility scooter to get around.
During his trip to Belfast with Alexander, the pair were spotted at a local diner. Staff members noted that Holmes appeared frail but in good spirits.
One employee mentioned they came in four days in a row and seemed happy and at ease together. Despite his visible health struggles, Holmes remained polite and friendly to everyone. His demeanor suggested that though his physical condition may limit him, he’s determined to enjoy life.
Witnesses also saw the pair at Belfast City Airport, where Holmes needed help getting into a car. His health challenges were further highlighted during this trip, but it didn’t stop the couple from making the most of their time together.
One particularly notable moment came during their cruise trip, where Holmes was photographed playfully patting Alexander’s behind as they disembarked in Ibiza.
The affectionate gesture caught attention not just for its public display but also because Holmes was still wearing his wedding ring at the time. Alexander stood beside him with her hand on his shoulder as he sat in a wheelchair.
Holmes is currently recovering from his recent spinal surgery and has spoken openly about his ongoing rehabilitation, which involves extensive physical therapy.
Behind the Scenes of the Divorce
While Holmes and Alexander’s relationship is making headlines, his divorce from Ruth Langsford is ongoing. Holmes and Langsford, who were once considered a power couple, shocked fans when they announced their split in May.
Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes attend the National Television Awards on January 28, 2020 | Source: Getty Images
The separation came after Langsford reportedly found messages from another woman on Holmes’ laptop. Langsford, who has remained quiet about the details, is reportedly working with a well-known divorce lawyer, Catherine Costley.
Costley is a protégé of Baroness Fiona Shackleton, famously known as the “Steel Magnolia.” Shackleton is one of the UK’s top divorce lawyers. She represented high-profile clients such as Prince Charles during his split from Princess Diana.
She also represented Sir Paul McCartney, Liam Gallagher, and Madonna. Costley’s experience working under Shackleton has earned her a reputation as a formidable legal expert in her own right.
Costley was brought in to negotiate the terms of the divorce. Even with the public nature of their split, both Holmes and Langsford have expressed a desire to keep things amicable, especially for the sake of their son, Jack, who is now 22.
Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes attend The TRIC Awards 2022 on July 6, 2022 | Source: Getty Images
Holmes also has three older children from his previous marriage to Gabrielle Holmes. Although both parties have remained relatively civil in the public eye, fans have not held back their opinions.
Many have voiced their support for Langsford, praising her for handling the situation with grace. Meanwhile, Holmes’ quick move into a new relationship with Alexander has left some wondering about the timing and questioning his decision.