Lawrence Jones gives big health update after going slowly blind. The anchor explains reason for sudden absence

Fox & Friends co-host Lawrence Jones has undergone a second eye operation after experiencing another retinal detachment, explaining the recent absence that prompted concern among viewers.

The 33-year-old shared the health update on X on Thursday, August 20, saying the latest complication followed surgery earlier this year to repair a detached retina.

Jones revealed that doctors ultimately connected his eye condition to a sports injury he sustained during childhood.

“Hey family, you may have noticed my recent absence,” Jones wrote. “I’ve been open about my eye surgery due to a retinal tear. However, I later discovered that this was caused by a childhood sports injury.”

A second operation following January surgery

Jones said he experienced another retinal detachment after the initial tear and underwent surgery on Wednesday.

“Regrettably, I’ve sustained another retina detachment, which is common after the initial tear,” he wrote. “Yesterday, I underwent surgery again with the best care team.”

The Fox News host thanked the people who have supported him during his latest health setback.

“I want to express my deepest gratitude to my colleagues, Fox management, and our audience for their unwavering support during this challenging time,” Jones wrote.

Despite requiring another operation, he ended his statement on a hopeful note.

“I’m optimistic that I’ll be back soon!” Jones told his followers.

The condition previously forced him away from Fox & Friends in January, when he underwent his first operation after doctors discovered that his retina was completely detached.

Jones initially said the problem was genetic. His latest update clarified that he later learned the original retinal tear resulted from the childhood injury.

Jones initially delayed seeking medical care

In an earlier interview with People, Jones acknowledged that he did not immediately consult a doctor when he first noticed problems with his vision.

“I just thought my vision just wasn’t being the best,” he said.

Jones described himself as a “pretty holistic person” and admitted that, like many people, he generally tried to avoid doctors’ offices. At the time, he did not believe his symptoms required medical attention.

A friend eventually persuaded him to visit a specialist.

“And I’m glad I did because it ended up being something more serious,” Jones told People.

Jones said he attended the appointment and learned within three hours that he had a detached retina. Doctors wanted him to undergo surgery as soon as possible.

The National Eye Institute identifies retinal detachment as a medical emergency that can result in permanent vision loss without prompt treatment.

The condition occurs when the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye is pulled away from its normal position. A previous retinal detachment or serious eye injury can increase the risk of another detachment.

Some patients may require further treatment or another operation if the retina detaches again.

His vision improved after the first procedure

Following his initial surgery, Jones told viewers that his sight was steadily improving.

“Each day my vision has gotten better and better,” he said after that procedure.

Jones also explained that it was the first time since childhood that he had been able to see particularly well through one eye.

His planned return was initially delayed because swelling prevented his eye from opening properly. Fox & Friends co-host Ainsley Earhardt called him “tough as nails” and wished him a quick recovery.

Jones eventually appeared on the program while he was still healing. He told People that he believed there was value in allowing viewers to witness that part of his experience.

“I kind of made the decision that it’s okay for the audience to see this healing journey,” he said.

Jones added that presenting his honest condition on television allowed the audience to see his “raw, true self,” even when he was not feeling his best.

A familiar presence on ‘Fox & Friends’

Jones joined Fox News Media in 2018 and hosted Lawrence Jones Cross Country from 2022 until 2023.

In September 2023, he became a permanent weekday co-host of Fox & Friends. At 30, he became the youngest Black co-host on cable news.

He currently shares the program with Steve Doocy, Ainsley Earhardt and Brian Kilmeade.

After being temporarily forced away from the show once again, Jones has made clear that he intends to return as soon as his recovery permits.