Manly legend and rugby league broadcaster John Gibbs has announced his diagnosis with Hodgkin lymphoma, prompting an outpouring of support from fans and colleagues. The 70-year-old will temporarily step away from his role with ABC Sport to focus on his health and begin treatment.
Gibbs's close friend and ABC Sport's chief rugby league commentator, Andrew Moore, shared the news on Monday night. Moore stated that Gibbs had been feeling unwell for a couple of months, experiencing a lack of hunger and energy, and had lost 10 percent of his body weight. Despite his illness, Gibbs was on the sidelines for ABC's coverage of the Parramatta versus Wests Tigers game on Sunday, with few listeners aware of his condition.
"John Gibbs called me this afternoon to confirm something he had been fearing for a while," Moore said, his voice emotional. "He has been diagnosed with cancer. He has asked me to let you know."
Gibbs is scheduled to meet with specialists on Friday to learn more about his treatment plan. His playing career with the Manly Sea Eagles, where he played 87 matches between 1976 and 1981, ended prematurely due to injury. He represented New South Wales in 1978 and was selected for the Kangaroo tour that same year, though he did not play in a Test match.
Following his playing career, Gibbs transitioned into broadcasting, becoming a recognizable voice in Sydney sports radio. He worked with stations including 2UE and 2GB before becoming a regular member of the ABC Sport rugby league team. His broadcasting career spans four decades and has included covering rugby union and television appearances.
News of his diagnosis led to numerous messages of support from listeners who have followed his career. Many expressed shock and shared personal connections to his commentary, with well-wishes for a speedy recovery flooding social media. A longtime friend expressed confidence in Gibbs's resilience, stating, "I'm positive you will beat this, thanks to your spirit & resilience."