Bob Harris Says Cancer Treatment is 'Getting Back Under Control'

BBC Radio 2's Bob Harris has shared a positive update on his health, revealing that his cancer treatment is "getting back under control." The 80-year-old broadcaster, known as 'Whispering Bob,' announced the news on Instagram on Sunday, stating he was "so thrilled" to share the update regarding his 19-year battle with prostate cancer.

"I was speaking this morning with my oncologist, the amazing Costi and we are going to continue with my cancer treatment," Harris said in a video. "We're getting back under control, I was a little bit worried a short time ago, but everything is getting back under control now. I can see the pathway of my life ahead of me opening up again."

He added a caption to the post: "The sun is shining and I'm so happy to bring you this fantastic news. Never lose the faith folks! The weekend starts here…"

Fellow broadcasters and personalities reacted positively to the news. Dermot O'Leary commented, "The best news. Well done champ x," while Sarah Millican wrote, "Wonderful news xxx," and Trevor Nelson added, "Really happy for you Bob."

Following the announcement, Harris embarked on a weekend trip to Oxfordshire with his sons, Dylan and Ben, sharing a selfie from their outing.

Earlier this month, Harris had provided a less optimistic update, telling fans that the stage four prostate cancer was "taking more of a hold." In June, he announced that ill health had necessitated his stepping down from hosting his Radio 2 shows, "Radio 2 Country" and "Sounds Of The 70s," concluding a 56-year broadcasting career.

At that time, he shared photos from his hospital bed, informing his followers that "there have been some changes with my cancer diagnosis." He expressed gratitude for the time spent with loved ones since stepping back from work, calling it "the most precious commodity."

"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," he had written. "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 continued, "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."

Harris assured fans that he "still feel[s] well" and was commencing an intensive course of intravenous radiotherapy, which he was confident would help manage the situation. He noted that living with stage four prostate cancer can be "a very emotional roller coaster," referencing the experience of cyclist Chris Hoy.

He concluded his previous message with a message of encouragement: "My message to you if you too are going through a difficult time is this: NEVER GIVE IN. Fight with all your might to keep going. It isn't always easy. I was in tears when I left the hospital with my son Miles on Friday."

Despite his health challenges, Harris indicated he was continuing to work, having launched a new playlist service on his website and planning to perform at his "Stand By Me Concert" with Robert Plant and other friends at the Royal Albert Hall on December 2nd. He expressed his gratitude for the support he has received and urged his followers to "live every day the best you can and just keep going."