TV legend Judy Finnigan, 77, has revealed she shed three stone and completely overhauled her health after a terrifying brush with death. The former This Morning host admitted she “nearly died” when she suffered a ruptured stomach ulcer — an ordeal that left her needing urgent emergency care and two major blood transfusions.
“I survived thanks to the exceptionally swift arrival and skill of the ambulance crew, and the superb treatment at London’s Royal Free Hospital,” Judy recalled. “I owe my life to them.”
A Lifestyle Overhaul With Daughter Chloe’s Help
Following her recovery, Judy turned to her daughter Chloe Madeley, 34 — a personal trainer — who devised a new nutrition and exercise plan for her mother. The programme focused on a reduced daily calorie intake, smaller portion sizes, eating more frequently but in moderation, and regular gentle exercise.
The changes paid off: Judy steadily dropped weight and, in the process, transformed her overall health. A source told Bella magazine: “Judy has had a few underlying medical conditions over the years, and losing weight has had a significant impact on her general health.”
Chloe has often spoken about her mother’s evolving approach to food, explaining that Judy’s palate has changed dramatically in recent years. “She was always a meat-and-potatoes kind of girl,” Chloe admitted. “But now she’s into sushi, raw fish, and wholegrain salads. Honestly, her diet is amazing.”
A Radiant Birthday Celebration
Two weeks ago, Judy stunned fans when she appeared in photos shared by Chloe to mark her 77th birthday. The former daytime TV queen looked radiant in a £126 floral Boden dress as she celebrated in the sunshine with balloons, flowers, and a cake.
Chloe captioned the touching post: “Rosé flowing with your chosen family. Happy birthday to my favourite woman in the world.”
The celebrations stretched across two days, with Judy later seen in a flowing black top and trousers as the family continued their garden festivities. Fans were quick to praise her glowing appearance, noting how youthful and healthy she looked after her transformation.
Years of Quiet Change
Judy has actually been on a slow, steady health journey since 2018, when reports first emerged that she had lost as much as five stone. At the time, Chloe insisted the transformation happened naturally, explaining: “I was as surprised as anyone when I opened the fridge and saw superfood salads and soups. Her palate just changed as she got older, and she naturally dropped the weight.”
Now, after her life-threatening health scare and guided lifestyle changes, Judy appears healthier and happier than ever.
A Love Story Still Going Strong
Away from the spotlight, Judy continues to enjoy life with husband Richard Madeley, 68. The pair first met in the 1980s while working at ITV Granada Television. They married in 1986 after Richard’s separation from his first wife Lynda and Judy’s divorce from journalist David Henshaw. Together, they built a television empire with This Morning and Richard & Judy, becoming Britain’s most beloved presenting duo.
While Judy has largely stepped back from public life, Richard remains a familiar face on This Morning and other programmes. Judy, meanwhile, enjoys family life and her renewed health — with her 77th birthday celebration marking not just another year, but a new chapter after her frightening health scare.
A New Lease of Life
For fans, Judy’s transformation is more than just about weight loss. It is a story of resilience, family support, and a reminder that even at 77, it’s never too late to take back control of your health.
