Fans of The Chase were left shocked this week after quiz show legend Anne Hegerty revealed she has received a serious health warning from her doctor — who has told her she is prediabetic and at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
The beloved 67-year-old TV brain, known to millions as “The Governess,” spoke candidly about her condition in a new interview, admitting that while she has lost around 30 pounds, it hasn’t been through any structured diet or medical program.
“My doctor said I’m prediabetic”
In a heartfelt chat with Yours Magazine, Anne explained that her doctor had raised concerns about her blood sugar levels and even suggested she consider Ozempic, the medication widely used to help control diabetes.
“My doctor said to me about being prediabetic and suggested something like Ozempic,” she revealed. “I told him I’d think about it — but I’m only thinking about it.”
Despite her calm tone, Anne acknowledged the seriousness of the warning.
Her doctor’s words have since sparked concern among fans, especially as Anne has been open about her fluctuating health and fitness over the years.
“I need to build strength”
Anne, who has never shied away from discussing her health, says her biggest challenge now is maintaining core strength and activity.
“I also need to do more stretches, because I’ve got no core strength,” she admitted. “That may actually be a good idea.”
Despite the warning, Anne remains practical and even lighthearted about her next steps, insisting she won’t make any drastic changes overnight.
“I’m not doing anything dramatic,” she said. “Just trying to move a bit more — little by little.”
Weight loss through change — not obsession
Anne first caught public attention for her weight loss during her appearance on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! back in 2018, where living on jungle rations led her to drop over a stone in just three weeks.
Since then, she’s continued to lose weight gradually — though she insists it’s not intentional.
“Some people have said I’ve lost weight, but I haven’t been doing anything deliberate,” she told Bella Magazine. “I just don’t feel as hungry these days — it’s to do with being rich!”
Anne laughed as she explained that financial stability has unexpectedly influenced her relationship with food.
From poverty to prime time
Before finding fame on The Chase, Anne has openly shared that she once lived on benefits and struggled financially.
That experience, she says, gave her a unique insight into the link between poverty and eating habits.
“When I was poor, I was hungrier,” she explained. “You feel hungrier when you’re poor — that’s why poor people eat more, and they eat fattening stuff. It’s comfort and survival.”
Her refreshingly honest reflections have resonated deeply with fans, many of whom praise her for speaking out about the emotional and financial factors behind health and weight.
What is prediabetes?
Prediabetes, also known as non-diabetic hyperglycaemia, occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not yet in the diabetic range.
According to the NHS, people with prediabetes are at a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes — but lifestyle changes such as increased activity, balanced diet, and weight management can significantly lower that risk.
There are three main types of diabetes:
- Type 1: A lifelong autoimmune condition where the body stops producing insulin.
- Type 2: The body doesn’t produce enough insulin or doesn’t use it effectively.
- Gestational: Temporary diabetes that occurs during pregnancy.
What is Ozempic — and why is it controversial?
Ozempic (semaglutide) is a medication designed to help adults with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar, alongside diet and exercise.
It belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 agonists, which mimic natural hormones that regulate appetite and insulin.
However, experts warn it should only be used under medical supervision.
“Ozempic is not prescribed as a weight-loss drug,” says Diabetes.org.uk. “It’s a treatment for type 2 diabetes, which can help you manage blood sugar levels, either alone or with other medications.”
“I’m fine — but I’ll bear it in mind”
Anne remains calm and grounded in the face of her diagnosis, choosing reflection over panic.
“I think I’m OK,” she said. “But I’ll bear it in mind.”
Fans have since flooded social media with messages of support for the Chase star, praising her for being honest and relatable.
“Anne Hegerty is a legend,” one fan wrote. “She’s brave for talking about this so openly. Sending love and strength!”
A reminder to check in on your health
Anne’s story is a powerful reminder that prediabetes often develops silently — and that awareness and early action can make all the difference.
If you are concerned about blood sugar levels or symptoms such as fatigue, thirst, or sudden weight changes, the NHS advises speaking to your GP for a simple test and lifestyle guidance.
For now, Anne says she’s focused on staying active, working on The Chase, and living each day with humor — the same wit and warmth that made her a household favorite.
“I’m not panicking,” she smiled. “I just know it’s something to keep an eye on. Life’s too short not to look after yourself — and to laugh while you do it.”
