Celebrities go through scary life changes, just like regular people. Some of them choose to go through their struggles publicly, in the hope it can help others going through the same ordeals, while others decide to keep things within their inner circle. Landmark reality TV presenter Emma Willis had a health scare recently. The Big Brother presenter had to undergo emergency surgery on her heart to save her life, leaving her fans terrified for her wellbeing.
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She underwent emergency life-saving operation
In April 2025, Emma Willis opened up to her fans on her Instagram account. The presenter explained she received a shock diagnosis, which forced her to undergo surgery on her heart. Sharing intimate snapshots of her and her husband, Busted singer Matt Willis, the presenter praised her partner for being a constant support during her health struggles. The mother-of-three wrote:
A big humungous THANK YOU to the team at the Royal Brompton Hospital for their care and support. A few weeks ago, I had keyhole heart surgery, which feels very strange to write, and even stranger when I say it out loud. From investigations last year, to diagnosis and then surgery, they were absolutely incredible. As was @mattjwillis who never left my side 💕
Emma Willis discovered she had a keyhole in her heart, which could eventually have had disastrous consequences on her life. The hole had reportedly been there for her whole life, but she had never known until a few weeks ago. Indeed, she suffered from a congenital heart defect, meaning she was born with a hole in her heart. The presenter paid tribute to the entire team of medical professionals who looked after her throughout the terrifying process of getting a diagnosis and undergoing emergency heart surgery.
Naturally her announcement had many worried, but Willis' strength amazes everyone even more.
Emma Willis makes first public appearance since heart surgery
The 49-year-old The Voice presenter bounced back quickly from her surgery, appearing alongside her husband at the BAFTA ceremony on Thursday 24 April 2025. The couple were all smiles as they attended the BAFTA TV Craft Award nominees' party in London. Other guests at the party included Bridgerton actress Nicola Coughlan, accompanied by her now official boyfriend James Dunn, as well as Strictly Come Dancing star couple Dianne Buswell and Joe Sugg.
Only a few weeks after receiving heart surgery, Emma Willis showed off her abs in a black crop top and a black suit. Seeing her look so alive and kicking has definitely reassured her fans, who were happier than ever. Let's wish Emma Willis a quick and peaceful recovery!
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Sources used:
The Sun: LIFE-SAVING OPERATION Emma Willis, 48, reveals she underwent secret surgery on her HEART after shock diagnosis
Daily Mail: Emma Willis flashes her abs in crop top as she joins husband Matt at star-studded BAFTA TV Craft Awards party after having keyhole heart surgery