Melanie Sykes | Source: Getty Images
TV star Melanie Sykes Shares Disturbing Health Update After Losing Some of Her Hair – Video
She once lit up British television screens — now she's fighting a devastating autoimmune disease that's left her unrecognizable.
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Melanie Sykes has broken her silence in a heartbreaking social media update that's left fans stunned and deeply moved.
The beloved 55-year-old broadcaster, best known for her decades on TV, took to Instagram on Saturday, 29 November, to reveal her deeply personal struggle: a debilitating autoimmune condition that has significantly impacted her body, her confidence — and her once-glamorous appearance.
"I am unwell, as you know, I've been ill all year. I've got an autoimmune condition, I am losing my hair, I keep having crazy inflammation all over and I am working on healing," she confessed.
Sykes first went public with her alopecia and heart condition diagnosis back in April, sharing her journey online — but abruptly stopped posting about it just a month later.
Now, she's bravely returned, revealing that her condition has worsened, leaving her "two thirds bald" and in chronic pain.
"In the last three months, I've done a meditation teacher training course," she shared. "I was too ill to finish it. Like literally the last two days of it I couldn't do."
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She revealed that she's been living what she described as "a very, very spiritual existence," quietly documenting her experience through writing and filming — though she admitted she's been too overwhelmed to release any of it.
That same day, however, she uploaded a brand-new introduction video, marking her emotional return.
When she first shared her story, fans were shocked by her transformed appearance — a reaction that has now resurfaced, tinged with heartfelt sympathy and concern.
"My god she has changed," one follower gasped. "The menopause is just about the worst thing to happen to a woman. You loose your confidence, your body changes soooooo much. You really do become invisible [sic]," another lamented. "Aww she had lovely hair to [sic]," a third added.
See photos of the TV presenter before her diagnosis below.
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Before
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Melanie Sykes stuns at the BAFTA Awards in April 2000, radiating futuristic glamour with a sleek updo and soft fringe. With minimalist makeup and a bold high-neckline, the TV star exudes polished confidence and timeless red-carpet poise.
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Turning heads at the 2000 Orange British Academy Film Awards, Sykes dazzles in a sculpted off-the-shoulder gown featuring a dramatic high neckline. Her elegant updo and signature smile brought a dose of old-Hollywood charm to London’s Leicester Square.
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A vision of grace at the 2008 Pride of Britain Awards, Sykes floats down the red carpet in a romantic grey gown laced with delicate detailing. Her swept-back hair and shimmering makeup evoke refined elegance as she lights up the London Television Centre.
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Serving sultry sophistication at the 2012 National Television Awards, Sykes commands attention in a sleek black gown with sparkling strap accents. Loose waves and dazzling earrings complete the look, radiating unshakable red-carpet confidence at the O2.
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Festive and flawless, Sykes brings seasonal sparkle to the TRIC Awards Christmas lunch at Grosvenor House on 12 December 2017. Her figure-hugging red lace dress, glowing makeup, and classic white clutch capture holiday glamour at its finest.
After
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A raw and emotional moment from Sykes' 11 April 2025 YouTube video, where the beloved presenter first opened up about her alopecia diagnosis and heart condition. Filmed in her art-filled home studio, she shares her struggle with aching vulnerability and quiet strength. | Source: YouTube/Melanie Sykes Is.
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A brave reveal captured in her April video, as Sykes lifts her hair to expose the effects of alopecia. With unwavering honesty, she describes the toll of her illness — both physical and emotional — in a moment as heartbreaking as it is courageous. | Source: YouTube/Melanie Sykes Is.
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In this powerful screengrab from her video, Sykes speaks with raw depth about her health battle. Seated in her sunlit studio, she offers a rare glimpse into the pain, courage, and clarity behind her journey. | Source: YouTube/Melanie Sykes Is.
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