Beloved TV presenter Alison Hammond has shared a deeply personal revelation, disclosing that her only son, Aiden Hammond, is battling a serious illness inherited from her. The 50-year-old This Morning host, known for her infectious laughter and warm personality, broke her silence in an emotional statement, marking the first time she has publicly addressed her son’s health struggles. The news has sent shockwaves through her fanbase, prompting an outpouring of support for the mother-son duo.
Hammond, who rose to fame on Big Brother in 2002 and has since become a household name on ITV, made the announcement via a heartfelt video posted on her Instagram earlier today. Visibly emotional, she explained that Aiden, now 19 and a budding DJ, has been dealing with a chronic condition that she herself carries genetically. While she did not specify the exact nature of the illness—citing privacy concerns for her family—the presenter hinted at its severity, describing it as a “daily battle” that has tested their resilience. “This is something I’ve passed on to him, and it breaks my heart every day,” Hammond said, her voice trembling. “But we’re fighting it together, and I want people to know we’re not alone.”
The revelation comes amid a period of personal transformation for Hammond, who has recently celebrated losing 11 stone and reversing a pre-diabetic diagnosis through lifestyle changes. Her openness about her health journey has inspired many, but this new disclosure shifts the focus to her son. Aiden, who shares a close bond with his mother and has occasionally appeared alongside her on TV, including a 2023 Gogglebox special for Stand Up To Cancer, has kept a low profile regarding his health. Fans have noted his absence from recent public appearances, which Hammond now attributes to his ongoing treatment.
Hammond’s decision to speak out appears motivated by a desire to raise awareness, though she emphasized that details would remain private to protect Aiden’s well-being. She mentioned consulting with medical professionals and support groups, suggesting the condition may be manageable with proper care. “I’ve learned so much about this illness through Aiden,” she added. “It’s taught me strength I didn’t know I had.” The presenter also thanked her partner, David Putman, and her This Morning co-host Dermot O’Leary for their unwavering support during this challenging time.
The news has sparked an immediate wave of empathy online, with fans and celebrities alike offering messages of encouragement. Social media platforms have been flooded with posts praising Hammond’s courage, with many expressing hope for Aiden’s recovery. Some speculate the condition could be related to her past health struggles, such as her pre-diabetes or other undisclosed genetic issues, though no official diagnosis has been confirmed. Given the lack of specific medical details, any assumptions remain inconclusive, and Hammond has urged the public to respect their privacy as they navigate this journey.
This is not the first time Hammond has faced personal adversity publicly. In 2020, she mourned the loss of her mother, Maria, to lung and liver cancer, an event that spurred her weight loss efforts. Her emotional resilience has been a recurring theme, seen in tearful tributes on This Morning, such as her 2025 goodbye to editor Martin Frizell. Now, her focus shifts to supporting Aiden, whose inherited condition adds a new layer to her story of perseverance.
Hammond’s career continues to thrive, with her new series Alison Hammond’s Big Weekend recently launched on BBC One, showcasing her interviewing prowess. Yet, she hinted at taking a brief hiatus to be with Aiden, promising to return with renewed energy. “My boy is my world,” she concluded in the video. “We’ll get through this, and I’ll keep you updated when I can.”
As the Hammond family faces this health challenge, the outpouring of love from the public underscores Alison’s status as a beloved figure. For now, the focus remains on Aiden’s well-being, with hopes that awareness of inherited conditions might inspire others to seek support. The full scope of their journey remains unfolding, but one thing is clear: Alison Hammond’s strength continues to shine through, even in the face of personal hardship.
