BBC Presenter Emma Louise Jones Reveals Pancreatitis Diagnosis as She Prepares for Gallbladder Surgery
BBC sports presenter Emma Louise Jones has revealed she is being treated for pancreatitis and is preparing to have her gallbladder removed. The broadcaster shared the diagnosis with followers after a photograph from her hospital bed prompted concern about her health. She said she hopes the operation, which she expects to undergo next week, will help her get back to her best.
Jones, 36, posted a picture of herself in hospital, giving the camera a thumbs-up. She later thanked people who had contacted her and explained why she had been admitted.
What Is Known About Her Diagnosis
In an Instagram story, she wrote: 'Thank you for all of your lovely messages checking in on me.' She disclosed the diagnosis and planned operation, adding: 'I have pancreatitis & I'm having the ol' gallbladder out next week, so hopefully I'll be back to me best after that.'
She also asked followers for television and film recommendations to help pass the time in hospital, adding that she was bored.
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, an organ that helps the body digest food and produces hormones including insulin. The NHS says acute pancreatitis can cause sudden, severe abdominal pain and requires urgent hospital treatment.
The NHS identifies gallstones and excessive alcohol consumption as the two most common causes of acute pancreatitis. Gallstones can block the opening of the pancreatic duct, triggering inflammation. However, Jones has not disclosed what caused her condition, and there is no confirmation that either factor is responsible in her case.
Her public update did not explain how severe the condition is, how long she has been in hospital or whether doctors have identified gallstones. The planned operation alone does not establish what caused the pancreatitis.
Gallbladder Operation Planned for Next Week
Jones said she expects to have her gallbladder removed next week. The procedure, known as a cholecystectomy, is commonly used when gallstones cause symptoms or complications.
The NHS explains that the gallbladder stores bile, which helps digestion, but is not essential to living a normal life. People can continue to eat a healthy diet after removal, although recovery can take several weeks.
Gallstones can trigger pancreatitis when they block the opening of the pancreatic duct, preventing digestive enzymes from draining properly. When gallstones are responsible, removing the gallbladder can help prevent further episodes. Jones has not confirmed whether gallstones caused her illness.
She told followers she hoped the operation would help her get 'back to me best', while asking them to keep the viewing suggestions coming as she waited in hospital.
Presenter Previously Took Time Away From Work
Jones also spoke publicly about separate health problems in 2024, when she announced that she was taking time away from work to focus on her recovery. In June that year, she said she had spent more time in hospital than at home and was taking time away from work to regain her strength.
She did not disclose the condition at the time. A few weeks later, she said she had undergone an operation the previous month, was taking high-dose steroids and trying other medication, and was feeling stronger.
Jones has worked across BBC sport, including its MOTDx programme and radio output. She has also hosted the Leeds United podcast and presented rugby and horse racing coverage, including for Raceday TV.
She has not shared further medical details publicly or announced a return-to-work date.