Jamie Theakston, 54, issues major health update as he returns to work following cancer surgery ordeal
Heart Radio presenter Jamie Theakston has revealed he is cancer-free, four months after being diagnosed with stage one laryngeal cancer.
The 54-year-old broadcaster made the emotional announcement during his return to Heart Breakfast on Friday morning, following a period of absence that began in September 2024.
Theakston had undergone three separate surgeries after listeners first noticed a change in his voice prior to his diagnosis.
Speaking on the show, Theakston said: “Today is the four-month anniversary of my cancer diagnosis. So it’s been four months, and I’ve had enough of hospitals and operations, and it’s just lovely to be back, and I’ve got some news for you. Because I can tell you that as of today, I’m cancer-free.”
The diagnosis had come as an overwhelming surprise to the presenter. “When I was told, ‘Oh, it’s probably cancer,’ just, literally, I just didn’t even know what to say. I mean, it just blew my mind,” he revealed.
Theakston detailed the challenging series of procedures he underwent, with each surgery causing increased damage to his vocal cords.
The presenter revealed the stark statistics he faced. “By the third one, they said, ‘Well, look, you’ve got a one in six chance you might not be able to talk again.’ And so, then you kind of think, ‘Oh, okay, that’s like rolling a dice,'” he shared.
His initial surgery had not achieved the desired results, leading to two additional operations.
Theakston acknowledged the widespread impact of his cancer journey, saying: “A whole family suffers. As you said, it’s not just the individual, and they’ve been amazingly supportive.”
He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he received. “Everyone has been so supportive. It’s been unbelievable and it’s just blown me away. Every single person I’ve ever met or known has been in touch. People I’ve forgotten all about have been in touch,” he said.
The presenter confirmed he will return to Heart Breakfast full-time on Monday, January 20.
Celebrating his return, Theakston shared an upbeat message on Instagram, declaring: “Nice try cancer but I’m still here! CANCER FREE. Difficult roads can lead to beautiful destinations, and after three surgeries, and four months of vocal therapy I’m back baby!”
His wife Sophie responded with an emotional comment: “Can’t believe this day has finally come we prayed it would… Just so proud of you darling.”
Fans of the radio presenter were also quick to comment on the post, as one celebrated: “Yay! Fantastic news! So happy for you!”
“Woo hoo! Brilliant news JT – so bloody delighted for you mate. Celebrations all round,” another added before a third said: “Outstanding news!”
A fourth noted: “So lovely to hear Jamie! Big big love.”
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Alan Titchmarsh unleashes blistering takedown of British roads as he fumes at ‘damaging’ governmentBBC Death in Paradise fans overjoyed as show legend confirmed to make return to drama despite exitMolly-Mae Hague breaks down in tears as she makes emotional ‘drinking’ plea to Tommy Fury in new doc
Pleased to see Theakston back on the radio, another fan said: “Was so great hearing you on heart this morning. Great news, welcome back.”
Someone else expressed: “Am soooooooooooooooo happy for you !!!!! You’re a WARRIOR !!!!!!!!!!” (sic)