Actress Hermione Norris Opens Up About Long Covid and Menopause Journey: Finding Strength and Joy in Everyday Moments
Actress Hermione Norris recently opened up about her struggle with long Covid, a condition that left her questioning her physical abilities. The Cold Feet star, aged 59, described the lasting impact on her body as surprising. Norris shared her experience as she embarked on a challenging pilgrimage through north-east England to Lindisfarne, a significant British holy site, for the upcoming BBC series Pilgrimage: The Road To Holy Island. Joining her on the journey were other celebrities like Ashley Banjo, Patsy Kensit, and Tasha Ghouri. Despite initial concerns about her health, Norris was pleasantly surprised by her physical fitness during the demanding walks.
Having battled long Covid a few years ago, Norris expressed her focus on maintaining her well-being and health. She emphasized the importance of exercise for strength rather than appearance, incorporating activities like stretching, weightlifting, and using an infrared sauna for her autoimmune condition. Reflecting on her experience with long Covid, Norris admitted that it was a shock to her system, given her previous fitness levels. Long Covid is a condition where Covid-19 symptoms persist for more than 12 weeks, according to the NHS website, with symptoms including extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, joint pain, muscle aches, and brain fog.
Norris, known for her role as Karen Marsden in the 90s drama Cold Feet, also discussed the significant changes she has noticed since going through menopause. She highlighted the transformative nature of the menopausal experience, describing it as a time when masks drop and she feels like a different person both mentally and physically, in a positive way. Norris shared that she now finds joy in simple things like her morning coffee, walks, her dogs, and the beauty of everyday life. The May 2026 issue of Prima magazine, where Norris shared her story, is currently available for purchase.
In conclusion, Hermione Norris's journey through long Covid and menopause has shaped her perspective on health, fitness, and the importance of finding joy in everyday moments. Her experience on the pilgrimage highlighted her resilience and determination to prioritize her well-being, showcasing the strength and positivity she embodies in facing life's challenges.