Mortimer underwent triple heart bypass surgery in 2015 after doctors found 95% of his arteries were blocked. According to Daily Express - Showbiz, Mortimer described experiencing a near-death vision during the procedure, saying he saw a light and felt happier than ever before. He said the experience left him no longer fearing death.
In 2024, Mortimer was diagnosed with shingles, which caused him to lose muscle mass in his legs and required him to use a wheelchair for part of the year. According to Daily Express - Showbiz, he described the shingles illness as the worst health year of his life, stating it was worse than his heart surgery period. His consultant has indicated he is heading for 80% muscle recovery in his leg, but the exact prognosis and timeline remain unclear.
Paul Whitehouse helped Mortimer recover after his heart surgery by getting him out of the house to go fishing. According to Daily Express - Showbiz, Mortimer described Whitehouse badgering him until he agreed to go fishing, which was his first trip out after the surgery. Their fishing show, Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing, first aired on BBC Two in 2018 and has been recommissioned every year since.
Mortimer is 66 years old. The current status of his rheumatoid arthritis condition and the specific tour dates with Vic Reeves that were cancelled due to his heart condition have not been confirmed.