Maisie Smith 'struggling' to cope as boyfriend Max George prepares to undergo heart surgery after mysterious illness

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BBC
Lauren Williams

By Lauren Williams


Published: 20/12/2024

- 07:59

The couple made their romance official in 2022 after first meeting on Strictly Come Dancing in 2020

Former EastEnders star Maisie Smith is finding it difficult to balance her pantomime commitments in Canterbury whilst supporting boyfriend Max George, who is currently in hospital awaiting heart surgery.

The Wanted singer, 36, was admitted to hospital last week after doctors discovered heart issues requiring urgent medical attention.


Sources close to the couple say Smith, 23, is struggling to juggle her professional obligations with her desire to be constantly by George's bedside during this worrying time.

The singer revealed he has a "2:1 block" in his heart, with doctors discovering his heart rate hasn't increased in nearly a week.

In a recent update from his hospital bed, he shared: "Because of this, we don't have too much time to wait so it looks like I'm going to be in surgery way quicker than the doctors first thought."

The singer might require a pacemaker, though the exact cause of his condition remains unclear.

Max George

Max has been in hospital for a mysterious heart condition

INSTAGRAM

George told followers he could potentially be home for Christmas despite the urgent nature of his surgery.

An insider told The Sun: "All she wants to do is be by his bedside day and night but she's committed to her panto show and doesn't want to let anyone down."

The source added that Smith is "juggling everything" while trying to visit George during hospital hours around her performance schedule.

"Max is on her mind 24/7 and she wants more than anything for him to be better as soon as possible," the insider revealed.

Max George

The Wanted singer has been keeping his fans updated on his Instagram account

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The situation has been described as a "worrying and distressing time" for the couple.

Despite her busy schedule, Smith managed to visit George in hospital, sharing a touching photo of herself holding his hand on Instagram.

"Got to see my wonderful man today. Proud of you @maxgeorge," she wrote on her story.

George responded with equal affection, reposting the image with the message: "Thank you baby. I love you so much," accompanied by a heart emoji.

The couple's social media exchange showcased their strong bond during this challenging period.

George and Smith first met while competing on Strictly Come Dancing in 2020, though they didn't begin dating until 2022.

Max George and Maisie Smith

The pair have been officially dating since 2022

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The couple made their relationship official by attending an awards ceremony together that year.

They have faced questions about their 13-year age gap, which Smith addressed during an appearance on Lorraine, saying: "I've always said from the start my family and your family - we're so close."

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