Jamie Theakston, the Heart Radio DJ, has revealed that he has been diagnosed with stage 1 laryngeal cancer. He made the announcement on Instagram, sharing that he recently had surgery to remove a lesion from his vocal cords.
Theakston explained that he sought medical help after fans noticed a change in his voice and encouraged him to get checked. In his post, he expressed optimism about his diagnosis, emphasizing that although he has cancer, he is determined not to let it control his life.
He also reassured his followers that his prognosis is positive, and he hopes to return to work by October.
Theakston’s radio co-host, Amanda Holden, showed her support by posting a photo of the two on Instagram, affirming her belief in his recovery. She praised his strength and shared that he has a great support system, including his family and friends, who are rallying around him.
Holden expressed her love for him and stated that the nation is standing behind him as he faces this challenge. On their breakfast show, she also provided listeners with an update on Theakston’s health, explaining that presenter Jason King (JK) will be temporarily covering for him while he recovers.
Holden emphasized that despite the diagnosis, things are looking up, and Theakston had asked the team to “hold the fort” in his absence.
She assured listeners that they would do their best to continue providing the quality show Theakston is known for. Theakston has been a part of Heart Radio for 19 years, and his partnership with Holden on the breakfast show has lasted five years, following her replacement of Emma Bunton in 2019.
Theakston’s long tenure at the station and his positive presence have earned him a loyal following.
The news of his diagnosis prompted a flood of support from fellow celebrities and fans. Former Spice Girl Emma Bunton, presenter Carol Vorderman, and TV chef Jamie Oliver were among those who reached out with messages of encouragement.
Bunton sent him love and well wishes, while Vorderman thanked his listeners for being attentive and helping catch the changes in his voice early.
Jamie Oliver and others, including TV presenter Lisa Snowdon, Kirsty Gallacher, and comedian Leigh Francis, expressed their support, sending positive energy and love to Theakston.
Earlier in the month, Theakston had shared that fans had picked up on the changes in his voice and urged him to seek medical attention. He thanked his listeners for their concern and revealed that doctors had discovered a lesion on his vocal cords, which he had removed in surgery.
Theakston expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and assured everyone that he is on the road to recovery and hopes to return soon.
Laryngeal cancer affects the larynx or voice box, and, according to the NHS, it is more common in men than women. One of the early symptoms can include a hoarse voice lasting more than three weeks.
Stage 1 cancer, as in Theakston’s case, indicates that the cancer has been caught early and has not spread to other parts of the body.
The NHS states that early-stage laryngeal cancer is often curable with radiotherapy or surgery, offering hope for Theakston’s full recovery.
Theakston first rose to fame in the late 1990s as the co-host of Live & Kicking with Zoe Ball, a popular children’s Saturday morning TV show. He later co-hosted Top of the Pops and presented on Radio 1.
In addition to his radio career, Theakston briefly ventured into acting, appearing in shows like Marple, Little Britain, and My Family. Theakston married jewellery designer Sophie Siegle in 2007, and they share two sons, Sidney and Kit. His family is standing by his side as he continues his recovery.
