Sue Radford has disclosed that her husband Noel is unwell after being struck down by a bug, prompting an outpouring of concern from devoted followers of Britain's largest family.
The mother-of-22 shared the health update on social media on Wednesday, revealing that "poor Noel has come down with a bug so he's really not feeling well".
The news arrives just days before the Radford family's highly anticipated television comeback, with a fresh series of 22 Kids and Counting set to launch on February 1.
Mr Radford, who first welcomed cameras into the family home alongside his wife back in 2012, has become a familiar figure to viewers following the Morecambe-based clan's daily life.
TRENDING
Stories
Videos
Your Say
Sue Radford said her husband, Noel, is unwell
|Ms Radford posted the update while enjoying a cup of tea, outlining her busy schedule for the day despite the disruption at home.
The 22 Kids and Counting star explained she was grabbing a quick coffee before heading to her daughter Bonnie's class showcase at school, with a hair appointment also planned for later.
Despite Mr Radford being under the weather, Ms Radford appeared determined to keep the family's hectic routine on track.
The Radfords, who reside in the Lancashire coastal town of Morecambe with 19 of their children, are no strangers to juggling multiple commitments at once.
Sue and Noel currently live with 19 of their children
| GETTYThe family occupies a 10-bedroom former care home that has been extensively renovated to accommodate their large brood, complete with an outdoor bar, cinema, and a £27,000 swimming pool in the garden.
Supporters quickly rallied around Mr Radford, with messages of encouragement flooding the comments section beneath Ms Radford's post.
"Hope Noel is better soon," wrote one follower, while another added: "Get well soon Noel enjoy your pampering Sue."
A third fan chimed in: "Oh no hope he feels better soon!"
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Another penned: "Hope Noel feels better! We had a pie delivery from you yesterday. My 6 year old and I love your show he was so excited! Can’t wait for the new show this week!"
Channel 5 also joined the conversation, posting enthusiastically: "WE ARE SO BACK!"
The broadcaster's comment sparked further delight among viewers, with one responding: "OMG yay!!! my birthday is the 1st of Feb so I'm even more excited for this xxx." (sic)
Ms Radford and Mr Radford had previously announced the new series by sharing a family photograph and asking followers who was excited for the upcoming episodes.
A preview clip released on the family's Instagram account has also sparked concern among fans, with Ms Radford describing a difficult period involving daughter Sophie, 32.
The family faced legal troubles after taking their children on a £52,000 trip to Disney World in Florida
|In the footage, Ms Radford admitted: "It has been one of the most worrying times."
She elaborated: "It has definitely been one of the most worrying times for one of our kids, because normally I'm used to being able to give advice because I've normally been through lots of different things that the kids are going through."
Ms Radford added that the situation feels "pretty alien" to her.
The clip shows Ms Radford rushing to contact Sophie, telling her on the phone: "I am on my way over, I'll speak to you later."
The programme is set to return to Channel 5 on February 1
|A voiceover revealed that two days had passed without the parents hearing from their daughter, with concern mounting during that time.
Fans immediately expressed their worry, with one writing: "Poor Sophie, I really hope she is ok."
The Radfords purchased their property in 2004 for £240,000 and have carried out substantial work on it over the years.
Ms Radford and Mr Radford are parents to Christopher, Sophie, Chloe, Jack, Daniel, Luke, Millie, Katie, James, Ellie, Aimee, Josh, Max, Tillie, Oscar, Casper, Hallie, Phoebe, Archie, Bonnie and Heidie. Their son Alfie was stillborn in 2014.
The family has faced legal troubles in recent months after taking their children on a £52,000 trip to Disney World in Florida to mark Ms Radford's 50th birthday in April last year.
The couple were found guilty at Preston Magistrates Court of failing to ensure regular school attendance for four of their children between March 24 and May 1, 2025. They received a £65 fine for each child, along with £118 in court costs.