Jamie Theakston has made a mark in both radio and television over the years. He rose to fame as a TV presenter in the 1990s with BBC shows such as The O-Zone, Top of the Pops, and A Question of Pop.
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In addition to music shows, Jamie's career expanded into more diverse TV roles. He co-hosted Live & Kicking, a popular Saturday morning children's show, and later worked with Zoe Ball on The Priory, a late-night chat show.
He currently hosts the Heart Radio breakfast show with Amanda Holden – who may be planning to leave the UK.
Jamie Theakston announces cancer diagnosis: ‘I have cancer’
In a recent announcement, Theakston shared that he has been diagnosed with stage one laryngeal cancer. According to The Express, the diagnosis came after fans noticed a change in his voice while listening to his broadcasts. In fact, it was their attentive feedback that encouraged him to seek medical advice, leading to an early diagnosis.
He underwent surgery to remove a lesion from his vocal cords, and the cancer was identified during the biopsy, reports BBC. The 53-year-old shared the news on his Instagram and wrote:
So - I have cancer - but cancer doesn't have me.
Confirming that he would be stepping away from his regular hosting duties on Heart Breakfast to focus on treatment, he added:
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 most capable hands of JK and Amanda.
His co-host, Amanda Holden, also told the listeners this week:
Now, even though it's been identified as cancer, it is not all bad news.
Co-host JK, Jason King, added:
Jamie has an amazing team who are going to get this sorted. He's going to be okay. He's hoping to be back with us very soon.
Theakston also expressed his gratitude for the early detection and thanked everyone for the support around him. Many fans, friends, and celebrities rushed to his comment section to send healing wishes his way.
What is laryngeal cancer?
Laryngeal cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the larynx, a part of the throat that contains the vocal cords. It is responsible for producing sound and helps with breathing and swallowing. The condition is more common in men than in women, and it is usually diagnosed in individuals over the age of 60.
However, it can occur at any age, particularly in individuals who smoke or drink alcohol excessively. Symptoms of laryngeal cancer include a persistent hoarse voice, difficulty swallowing, a long-lasting sore throat, earache, and a lump in the neck. Other signs may include breathlessness or a wheezing sound when breathing.
The earlier laryngeal cancer is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment. Stage one cancer, which Theakston has, means that the disease is localised and has not spread to other parts of the body, as per Cleveland Clinic. Treatment for this stage often includes radiotherapy or surgery, both of which can be highly effective.
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Sources used:
The Express: Jamie Theakston: What is laryngeal cancer and the symptoms to look out for
BBC: Radio host Jamie Theakston reveals cancer diagnosis
Cleveland Clinic: Laryngeal Cancer
