Gail Porter Illness and Health Update: What Happened to Gail Porter? From Alopecia to Fractured Skull

Gail Porter is a Scottish TV presenter and actress who rose to fame in the 1990s with shows like The Big Breakfast, Top of the Pops, and The Gadget Show. She also made headlines in 1999 when a nude photo of her was projected onto the Houses of Parliament as part of a publicity stunt for FHM magazine. But behind her glamorous image, Porter has faced many health challenges and struggles in her personal life. Here is a summary of what happened to Gail Porter and what illness she has.
Alopecia: Losing Her Hair and Eyebrows
One of the most noticeable aspects of Porter’s appearance is her baldness, which is caused by a condition called alopecia. Alopecia is an autoimmune disorder that causes the body’s immune system to attack the hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. Porter first developed alopecia in 2005, when she lost most of her hair within a few weeks.

She refused to wear a wig or a hat, and embraced her new look with confidence and positivity. She said: “I don’t really know what happened and don’t remember any of it. I was working, it had been a very long day, it was very cold, I was heading for something to eat and just collapsed.”
Gail Porter has also suffered with postnatal depression, was sectioned following her divorce, and has had a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. She has written about her experiences, offering hope and support to others facing similar challenges. She said: “Whatever you look like, hair or no hair, you’ve got this. Believe me.”
Tonsillitis and back in bed! This year!!!!!! 🤢🥺😵💫Have a great day all x pic.twitter.com/ALfBALoQ5m
— Gail Porter (@Gailporter) December 25, 2023
Gail Porter Fractured Skull: Suffering a Seizure and Falling Backwards
In November 2021, Porter had a serious accident that left her with a fractured skull and two bleeds on her brain. She had a seizure and fell backward, hitting her head on the pavement. She shared a picture of the graze on the back of her head on Instagram, and told her fans: “Sleeping is not too comfortable with a fractured skull!! Don’t have the handbook on comfy sore head sleeps! Hope you’re all sleeping well.”
Gail Porter also revealed that she had been waiting for six months to get an MRI scan to check on her injury, due to the delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. She said: “Well… slightly weird but I guess good news. A London doctor has arranged an MRI scan for me….6 months after I fractured my skull. I’ll take that as a positive as I’m still here!”
She finally got her scan in April 2022, and expressed her nervousness and excitement on Twitter. She said: “Sooooo… got my MRI scan tomorrow. Excited and a bit nervous. Quiet day with the cat today, fingers crossed all is good.”
Health Update: How is Gail Porter Doing Now?
According to her latest posts on social media, Porter seems to be doing well and recovering from her ordeal. She has been sharing pictures of her cat, her friends, and her work projects, showing her cheerful and optimistic attitude. She has also been receiving treatment and support for her mental health issues and has been raising awareness and funds for various charities, such as Mind, Alopecia UK, and The Brain Tumour Charity.
Porter has also been working on her career, hosting podcasts, writing books, and appearing on TV shows. She recently celebrated her 50th birthday and thanked her fans for their love and kindness. She said: “Thank you so much for all your lovely birthday messages. I’m so grateful for all the love and support. You’re all amazing. Here’s to another 50 years of fun and adventures!”
Gail Porter is an inspiration to many people who have faced health challenges and personal struggles. She has shown resilience, courage, and positivity in the face of adversity, and has used her platform to help others. We wish her all the best and hope she continues to thrive and shine.