This Morning host Ruth Langsford spoke of her “heartbreak” which almost made her give up a successful 34-year TV career. It comes after her sister Julia died at the age of 62 in June 2019, with an inquest ruling that her cause of death was suicide.
The 60-year-old revealed it was her spouse Eamonn Holmes, 60, who encouraged her to return to her presenting gigs.
Following Julia’s death, Ruth had no “motivation or desire” to remain in the public eye.
Speaking to Best Magazine, Ruth said: “It seemed wrong to be cheery on-screen, when, inside, my heart was breaking.”
For the first month, Eamonn comforted his grieving wife as she would “cry, scream and sob”, she told the publication.
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The ITV favourite credits her husband for encouraging her to return to work.
He sat her down for a “soft but strong” talk to encourage her to live her life and resume her career as a tribute to her sister.
Ruth explained: “Eamonn pointed out that he was, in effect, losing not one, but two of the most precious people in his life – Julia and me.
“He showed me I had so much to live for in Julia’s memory – and beyond.”
She also revealed how her co-host and spouse “pleaded” with her to not let the tragic loss impact the rest of her life.
Ruth’s sister Julia had been battling with depression before her death.
“He pleaded with me not to let it win, by ruining everything I had achieved – and still had to celebrate,” she commented.
Ruth took some time away from her presenting duties on This Morning after Julia’s death, in order to grieve.
Announcing the heartbreaking news at the time, the presenter took to Instagram sharing a snap alongside Julia, saying: “My lovely Sis Julia has sadly died after a very long illness. My heart is completely broken.
“She was the kindest and most gentle soul and I will miss her forever. As I am sure you will appreciate, I need to take time to grieve with my family. Thank you for your understanding.”
It comes after Ruth yesterday announced that Eamonn is “still recovering” after the latter’s “nasty abscess” in his wisdom tooth.
The small-screen star updated her 869,000 Instagram followers on her other half’s condition after Eamonn told his one million Twitter followers about his trip to the dentist.
Fortunately, Ruth revealed he has been resting today after his painful ordeal.
The star shared a snap of her husband sleeping peacefully with his feet propped up on the sofa out in their garden.
She captioned the picture: “Bless him… Still recovering from yesterday’s wisdom tooth extraction!”
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