Gogglebox star Sue Sheehan has been absent from recent episodes of the Channel 4 show, with the TV watcher revealing the reason why in the latest instalment of the series.
Sue Sheehan on Gogglebox has bravely opened up about her health battle (Image: Channel 4)
Since 2019, Sue has been a familiar face on Gogglebox, alongside her husband Steve, with the pair becoming fan favourites as they critique the week’s TV.
However, in a recent episode, fans were concerned to hear that Sue is suffering from Bell’s Palsy, a condition causing temporary facial paralysis or weakness.
Bell’s Palsy can sometimes affect both sides of the face, though it more commonly presents with symptoms such as a drooping eyelid or mouth corner, dryness or drooling, altered taste, and eye issues. Sue had been noticeably absent from Gogglebox, but she returned on Friday to share her struggle with the disorder.
On the programme, Sue discussed her condition, saying: “I mean I’ve actually learned to do a couple of things since this Bell’s Palsy,” prompting Steve to ask: “Have you? ” She elaborated: “Yeah one is to speak through the side of my mouth and the other one is chewing, chewing takes a long time.”
Steve humorously offered his support by saying: “I have offered to chew your food for you …” to which Sue responded: “You have – but I’m not having that.”, reports the Mirror.
With a touch of affectionate banter, Steve remarked: “You haven’t lost the sharp side of your tongue have you? “.
Empathy poured in for Sue as viewers watched her talk about her health challenges, with one tweeting: “All the best to Sue and big love for bringing Bell’s Palsy to the fore.”
Another sent well-wishes: “Sue and Steve wishing you a speedy recovery from your Bell’s palsy Sue keep being you love seeing you both on Gogglebox.”
Further support came via social media, where someone commented: “I love Sue and Steve wishing Sue well,” and another posted: “Get well soon, lovely lady.”
Recovery from Bell’s Palsy may involve steroids and eye drops if closing eyes becomes troublesome. According to NHS guidelines, most patients make a full recovery within six months, though some may take longer.
Tulisa Contostavlos, formerly of ‘I’m A Celebrity’, disclosed she has previously faced bouts with Bell’s Palsy. Speaking openly on ITV’s ‘Loose Women’, Tulisa said: “I do suffer from Bell’s palsy… it can cause facial paralysis, it can cause swelling.”
The former N-Dubz star recounted her first encounter with the condition followed a grave horse-riding accident that resulted in a fractured skull, leading to significant nerve damage.
She carries emergency steroids at all times to control the symptoms, stating that now she knows how to handle it, so it doesn’t last as long.
