'Friends fear for frail' Bert Newton

Friends and family are fearing for beloved TV personality Bert Newton as he battles with enduring health issues, a source has claimed.

Just days after his 81st birthday, it’s being claimed the Aussie screen legend is not as fighting fit as pictures from his celebrations seemed to suggest.

Bert underwent quadruple bypass heart surgery back in 2012 and has since fought his way through debilitating bouts of pneumonia, and severe anaemia.

It’s the latter that has the host’s nearest and dearest concerned an anonymous family friend told Woman’s Day, describing a steep decline in recent months.

“He is very weak, very frail and he's ailing at an alarming rate,” they told the magazine.

“Patti doesn't even like to leave him alone for more than a couple of hours. She's been out of her mind with worry for weeks.”

However, photos shared on Instagram just last week show Bert on his feet and smiling alongside his grandchildren. Yahoo Lifestyle has contacted his management for comment.

No-show at the Logies

Bert’s illness, the source said, is what was behind Bert and wife Patti’s withdrawal from media events.

The power couple of Aussie TV were notable absences at this year’s Logies after having attended in 2017 and 2018 respectively.

Recent Instagram snaps show the grandpa spending plenty of quality time with daughter Lauren’s five kids but rarely leaving his Melbourne home.

A stalwart of Australian media since he kicked off his career with a radio gig at just 15 years old, Bert has weathered enough hardship to last a lifetime.

His son, actor Matthew, famously fled his home country for the US on the back of assault allegations and struggles with addiction, and Bert himself has been dogged by gambling rumours.

Got a story tip or just want to get in touch? Email us at lifestyle.tips@verizonmedia.com

Want more lifestyle and celebrity news? Follow Yahoo Lifestyle on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Or sign up to our daily newsletter here.