British sports broadcaster Laura Woods collapsed on live television Tuesday evening during coverage of England’s women’s soccer international match against Ghana in Southampton.
Woods, 38, addressed the incident herself soon afterward. In a message shared to Instagram, she said medical staff at the stadium believed she had likely suffered symptoms from a virus.
As cameras rolled, Woods suddenly appeared unsteady and fell forward, prompting both colleagues to step in and catch her. The network immediately cut to a commercial break.
ITV later returned with stand-in presenter Katie Shanahan, who informed viewers that Woods had “been taken ill” and would not continue with the broadcast. At halftime, Shanahan again reassured the audience that Woods was receiving care and was “doing OK.”
“As you have probably noticed, we don’t have the wonderful Laura Woods because she’s just been taken ill,” Shanahan said. “But she’s in very good hands so I’m stepping in at late notice.”
In her Instagram post, Woods expressed gratitude for her colleagues.
“Gosh that was a bit weird,” she wrote. “Sorry to worry everyone, I’m OK. The wonderful paramedics at Saints have said it’s probably a virus, just need a bit of rest and hydration. I’m really embarrassed that happened on TV, but a big thank you to my colleagues at ITV who have really looked after me tonight. And to Wrighty and Neets for catching me.”
The broadcaster ITV did not provide further details about the nature of Woods’s illness but confirmed she was receiving appropriate medical attention.
Woods is among the most recognizable faces in contemporary British sports media. She currently serves as a presenter across men’s and women’s soccer coverage for ITV and TNT Sports, frequently appearing on Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League programming.
She has also been a host for women’s international football coverage and has earned a reputation for her on-site reporting and player interviews.
Before moving fully into television, Woods built a significant career in radio. She spent years at Talksport, where she served as a leading presenter and established herself as one of the network’s most prominent voices.
Further updates on Woods’s return to air have not yet been announced.
