Andy Kershaw, the veteran Radio 1 broadcaster and Live Aid presenter, has revealed that he is fighting cancer after medical professionals identified tumours in his spine last August.
The 66-year-old DJ revealed that the disease has primarily affected his spinal column, rendering him unable to walk.
Since receiving his diagnosis, Mr Kershaw has been receiving an intensive course of treatment combining chemotherapy, radiotherapy and physiotherapy, alongside numerous scans and pain medication.
The news emerged after listeners of The Andy Kershaw Podcast began questioning why no new episodes had appeared for approximately six months, prompting the much-loved broadcaster to explain his absence from the airwaves.
Andy Kershaw is unable to walk as a result of the illness
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Despite his serious condition, Mr Kershaw has maintained his characteristic wit and defiant outlook. Speaking on his podcast, he declared: “I am in good spirits, feeling very positive and planning another podcast.”
The broadcaster, known for his irreverent humour, added a typically sardonic observation about his determination to survive.
“I am determined not to die before Benjamin Netanyahu, Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump and Ant’n’Dec. That should keep me going for a while,” he quipped.
His podcast, which functions as a revived incarnation of his celebrated radio programme, has been on hiatus throughout his treatment, though Mr Kershaw has made clear his intention to return to recording when his health permits.
Andy Kershaw has reacted to the news with typical humour
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Mr Kershaw’s distinguished broadcasting career began at Radio Aire in Leeds, where he served as promotions manager and forged a working relationship with Martin Kelner.
During this period, he notably gave television presenter Carol Vorderman her first opportunity in the media industry.
His profile rose significantly in 1984 when he was appointed to present The Old Grey Whistle Test, the BBC’s flagship rock music programme.
The following year brought further prominence as he co-hosted the corporation’s television coverage of the historic Live Aid concert.
Andy Kershaw revealed the news to his fans
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Subsequently joining Radio 1 as the successor to the legendary John Peel, Mr Kershaw became renowned for his eclectic musical tastes and extensive international reporting.
His journalistic work took him across the globe to cover conflicts and cultural stories, including contributions to Radio 4 and coverage of the 1994 Rwanda genocide.
Peter Everett, a close friend of Mr Kershaw who produces his podcast, has spoken publicly about the broadcaster’s ordeal.
“My friend Andy has been going through a difficult time,” Everett said, confirming that the cancer diagnosis came last August and has severely impacted Mr Kershaw’s mobility.
Andy Kershaw has worked at the BBC for decades
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PAMr Everett explained that the prolonged absence of new podcast episodes was directly attributable to Mr Kershaw’s ongoing medical treatment, which has consumed the past half year.
“Although we’ve not been able to put together any podcasts in the last six months, we are very grateful to all the patrons and supporters who have stuck with us,” he added, expressing appreciation for those who have continued backing the programme during this challenging period.