CANCER SHOCK Jamie Theakston, 53, reveals throat cancer diagnosis after it was spotted by radio listeners who heard change in voice
The 53-year-old, who presents on Heart Radio, said the disease was spotted by radio listeners after they noticed a change in his voice – leading to him seeking medical advice.
Jamie, who presents the breakfast show alongside Britain’s Got Talent judge Amanda Holden, has been on a break from work after undergoing surgery to his vocal chords.
Sharing a health update with fans on Instagram, the radio star confirmed who will replace him and when he will be back.
He said: “Hi folks, as you know – I recently had an operation to remove a lesion from my vocal chords.
“The biopsy has identified this as Stage 1 Laryngeal cancer.
“So I have cancer but cancer doesn’t have me!
“The prognosis is very positive and I’m hoping to be back with you in October.
“Until then, I’ve been told to give my voice a rest and leave you in the mostly capable hands of JK and Amanda.
“Huge thanks to them and all the Global family who have been unbelievably supportive.
“Be thankful for this day, and when I see you next, I’ll have a great story to tell.”
According to the NHS website, laryngeal cancer affects your voice box.
The main treatments for throat cancer include radiotherapy, surgery, chemotherapy and targeted cancer medicines.
Jamie’s co-star Amanda spoke about Jamie’s health update on the show.
Shortly after Jamie’s announcement, an emotional Amanda said live on air: “We share everything with you on this show, the ups and the downs.
“So, it feels only right that we get you completely up to speed with what’s going on.
“You might have seen on Jamie’s socials, he recently had an operation to remove a lesion from his vocal cords and we wanted to let you know that this biopsy has actually been identified as stage 1 laryngeal cancer.
“Even though it has been identified as cancer, it is not all bad news.”
Amanda continued: “He has told us that we have got to hold the fort and he has told us that the show must go on and absolutely that’s what we’re going to do.
“We’re going to do him proud. Him and Sophie and the boys, they’re listening at home and I know after this announcement all of those listening are going to be sending your best wishes to our King.
“Our lovely Jamie who is going to be better and back with us soon.”
She also rushed to social media to share her love and support.
Amanda reshared his post on her story and added: “We love you @jamie_theakston.”
It comes just weeks after Jamie revealed he was taking a break from his breakfast show to recover from surgery.
In a statement on social media, he explained: “Sooo – a few of you listeners have noticed my voice hasn’t sounded right these past few weeks – I’ve got you to thank… got it checked.
“Doctors found a lesion on my vocal chords which I’ve had removed this weekend.
“Thanks for all the kind messages should be back on my feet soon – in the meantime…”
Many friends and fans have taken to his recent post to share their get well soon messages.
Carol Vorderman said: “Sending best Jamie ❤️ thank goodness your listeners spotted the change in your voice, all found early and you’ll be back keeping everyone happy very soon ❤️❤️.”
Strictly’s Oti Mabuse added: “Get well soon.”
MAFS’ Mel Schilling wrote: “Sending all my love & cancer-kicking strength Jamie.”
Jamie has presented Heart Breakfast since 2005.
He is a TV presenter, producer and actor – and started off his career presenting Top of the Pops between 1998 and 2003.
The star has presented a number of radio shows since starting his career when he was 23.
He’s been married to TV producer Sophie Siegle since 2007.
