Richard Osman Shares How Health Issues Shape His Work

Richard Osman, known for 'Pointless' and his books, has shared that health issues like nystagmus, which affects his eyes, and past kidney stones have changed how he works. He finds writing easier than some TV tasks because of his vision.
By Newsroom | Health, Entertainment |

A Noted Figure's Personal Health Landscape and Professional Path

Richard Osman, a well-recognized television personality and author, has recently shared details about lifelong health conditions that have influenced his career decisions and his method for writing. These revelations offer a look into how personal health challenges can shape an individual's professional journey and creative output. Osman's openness about these matters provides a window into the less visible aspects of his public persona.

Richard Osman says 'that's important to me' as health condition sparked career decision - 1

Background and Health Disclosures

Osman, known for his work on programs like "Pointless" and his bestselling "Thursday Murder Club" novels, has spoken about several health issues.

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  • A central disclosure involves nystagmus, a lifelong eye condition present since birth. This condition causes involuntary eye movements and can lead to blurred vision.

  • The impact of nystagmus means Osman cannot use autocues, a common tool for television presenters, due to its effect on his vision. Lights can appear with halos, causing visual disruption.

  • He has also experienced significant pain from kidney stones, describing it as one of the most painful experiences he has endured.

  • Osman has further discussed a lifelong struggle with food addiction, which he views as an ongoing condition he manages rather than one that is cured.

Evidence of Health Impacts

Information from various reports substantiates how these health matters affect Osman's professional life.

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  • "The Thursday Murder Club author Richard Osman has revealed how a childhood diagnosis continues to impact his writing career today." (Wales Online, Sep 27, 2025)

  • "Unlike most TV presenters who rely on autocues, Osman is unable to use them due to the nature of his condition." (Express, Sep 27, 2025)

  • "Richard noted that audiobooks have experienced a surge in popularity. I've said before that I listen to a lot of audiobooks because my eyesight is not great and there's a lot of people like that." (Manchester Evening News, Sep 18, 2025)

  • Regarding kidney stones, reports note that "The 54-year-old has been open about his struggle with food addiction. You can't [stop being one] because you started when you were nine." (Mirror, Aug 21, 2025)

Impact on Writing and Creative Process

Osman's nystagmus has a discernible effect on his approach to writing, a point he has elaborated on.

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  • Visual Challenges in Reading: The condition's impact on vision means traditional methods of reading printed materials can be difficult. This has led him to favor audiobooks, acknowledging their growing popularity and how they cater to individuals with visual impairments.

  • Alternative Reading Methods: While his novels achieve bestseller status, the method of their creation and consumption by readers is a topic he has touched upon. He has pointed out that lists like the Sunday Times Bestseller list focus on physical copy sales, not including digital or audio formats.

  • Career Pivot Towards Writing: The challenges posed by his vision condition, particularly in live television, may have contributed to his decision to focus more on writing. His success in the literary field, evidenced by the popularity of "The Thursday Murder Club," suggests a deliberate alignment of his career with his capabilities and interests.

Television Presentation Adaptations

Osman's nystagmus necessitates adjustments in his television work, highlighting a unique aspect of his public role.

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  • Autocue Incompatibility: The involuntary eye movements and visual disturbances associated with nystagmus make it impractical for him to rely on autocues. This is a standard tool for many broadcasters, and its inaccessibility for Osman underscores a significant adaptation he has made.

  • "Hiding" the Condition: He has stated that he manages to "hide" his condition on television. This implies a practiced control and awareness of how his condition might be perceived, demonstrating a level of professional management.

  • Alternative Presentation Styles: His ability to present successfully on television, despite these limitations, suggests a development of alternative skills or presentation strategies that accommodate his visual condition.

Expert Commentary and Observations

Commentary on Osman's disclosures centers on resilience and the multifaceted nature of success.

  • "Osman’s openness about his health struggles sheds light on the realities many face behind the scenes, reminding fans and followers that success often comes with unseen challenges." (Gloucestershire Daily, Sep 27, 2025)

  • "His journey underscores the importance of resilience and determination in pursuing one’s passions despite obstacles." (Gloucestershire Daily, Sep 27, 2025)

  • The descriptions of his health conditions, particularly nystagmus, align with medical understanding: "The condition, often referred to as wobbling or dancing eyes, usually leads to some level of visual impairment." (Wales Online, Aug 8, 2025)

Summary of Findings and Future Considerations

Richard Osman's personal health landscape, marked by nystagmus, kidney stones, and food addiction, has demonstrably influenced his career trajectory and creative methodologies.

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  • Nystagmus: This lifelong eye condition directly affects his ability to engage with visual media like autocues, steering his professional focus towards writing and necessitating the use of accommodations such as audiobooks.

  • Career Alignment: The challenges presented by his vision have likely played a role in his substantial success as an author, a field where he can adapt his working environment.

  • Resilience and Adaptation: Osman's disclosures highlight his capacity to navigate significant health issues while achieving notable professional success, underscoring the importance of personal resilience.

  • Public Awareness: His candidness contributes to a broader understanding of how health conditions can impact individuals in public-facing roles and the creative arts.

The information available does not suggest immediate future professional changes, but it provides a clear understanding of how his health has shaped his career choices to date.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What health issues does Richard Osman have?
Richard Osman has nystagmus, a lifelong eye condition. He has also had painful kidney stones and struggles with food addiction.
Q: How does nystagmus affect his TV work?
Nystagmus makes it hard for him to read autocues used by TV presenters. He has to find other ways to present shows.
Q: Why does he prefer writing?
His eye condition makes reading difficult, so he likes audiobooks. Writing allows him to work in a way that suits his vision better than some TV jobs.
Q: Has he always had these health problems?
Yes, nystagmus has been with him since birth. His struggle with food addiction also started when he was young.