BBC Radio 2 DJ Bob Harris has announced that his stage four prostate cancer is progressing, stating the disease is "taking more of a hold." Harris, known as 'Whispering' Bob, was first diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2007 and has been living with the condition.
In June, the broadcaster stepped down from hosting his Radio 2 shows, including "Radio 2 Country" and "Sounds of the 70s," due to his ill health, concluding a 56-year career in broadcasting. He shared an update on Instagram from his hospital bed, noting "some changes with my cancer diagnosis" but emphasizing the value of time spent with loved ones during his summer break.
"It has been a while since I last posted a health update and I want to let you know how I'm getting on, because there have been some changes with my cancer diagnosis," Harris wrote. "As regular followers will know, earlier this year I was forced to step back from @bbcradio2 to concentrate on treatment and rest. I have been missing my programmes so much, but this space has given me a most beautiful summer here at home, enjoying a most precious commodity… TIME."
He expressed gratitude for the moments spent with family and friends during the summer but acknowledged the cancer's increasing impact. "I feel very blessed to have been able to spend lovely moments with family and friends (some of which I've posted here on Instagram) in the glorious summer sunshine, but during this time my cancer has been getting more of a hold," he said.
Harris assured fans he still feels well and is beginning an intensive course of intravenous radiotherapy, which he is confident will help manage the condition. "I should know the outcome quite soon," he added.
Comparing his situation to cyclist Chris Hoy, who also lives with stage four prostate cancer, Harris acknowledged the emotional challenges involved. "It is possible to live successfully with stage four prostate cancer (as demonstrated by the incredible Chris Hoy,' he continued, 'and Chris will know as well as anyone, it's a very emotional roller coaster."
Despite the difficulties, Harris maintained a positive outlook. "But, as you know, I'm an extremely positive person, and I continue to be determined to continue to get the best out of everyday." He shared a message of encouragement for others facing hardship: "NEVER GIVE IN. Fight with all your might to keep going."
Reflecting on the emotional toll, he admitted, "I was in tears when I left the hospital with my son Miles on Friday." Nevertheless, he revealed he is continuing to work, having launched a new playlist service on his website and looking forward to performing at his Stand By Me Concert at the Royal Albert Hall on December 2.
His post garnered numerous supportive messages from colleagues and friends, including Jo Whiley, Gary Davies, Amanda Holden, and Gary Kemp, who praised his strength and inspiration.
Previously, in April, Harris had revealed that his cancer had spread to his upper spine, causing "excruciating pain." This news contributed to his difficult decision to leave his Radio 2 shows, a career he described as one of the hardest decisions of his life, stating he did not want to host programs without being able to give 100%.
Harris, who had been with the BBC for over 50 years and received an OBE for services to broadcasting in 2011, celebrated his 80th birthday in April. Radio 2 marked the occasion with a special program, "Bob Harris at 80: A Life in Music."