Paul Whitehouse Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes, Cites 'Chocolate Frenzies'

Paul Whitehouse, star of the television show "Gone Fishing," has revealed he has been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. The 68-year-old comedian shared that he has significantly altered his lifestyle, including eliminating his former "chocolate frenzies," to manage his condition.

Whitehouse described his diagnosis as having "crept into the Type 2 diabetes area." He acknowledged that his lifestyle and age likely contributed to the diagnosis, noting that reducing his intake of sweets, specifically mentioning Maltesers, has been part of his management strategy. He told fans that his "chocolate frenzies" are now a thing of the past, replaced by "two bits of dark chocolate that's basically torture and not chocolate."

His "Gone Fishing" co-star, Bob Mortimer, recalled an instance where Whitehouse's craving for chocolate led him to search kitchen cabinets while undressed. Whitehouse admitted to this behavior, explaining that after a day of fishing, he once experienced an intense desire for a chocolate reward but found none in the house, leading to his frantic search.

In addition to dietary changes, Whitehouse is also taking prescribed medication for his diabetes and has cut out almost all sugar from his diet. Mortimer has also been focusing on his fitness, incorporating at-home workouts while watching television. He previously underwent emergency triple heart bypass surgery in 2015, the same year Whitehouse had three coronary stents fitted.

The health challenges faced by both comedians served as the catalyst for their show "Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing." The series began in 2018 after Mortimer's wife suggested fishing as a way to help him cope with potential depression following his surgery. The show has since run for eight seasons, but Mortimer has expressed concerns about their ability to continue due to their health issues, humorously warning that they might one day be dragged into a lake by a pike.

Mortimer also shared his own health scares, recalling how he initially dismissed his breathlessness as a symptom of aging while playing with his sons. He realized the severity of his condition when a pre-tour check-up revealed his arteries were 95-98% blocked, necessitating immediate surgery. He expressed fear and the realization that his life could have been drastically altered, potentially even leading to death on stage.

Whitehouse played a supportive role in Mortimer's recovery, encouraging him to leave the house and discuss their health journeys. Mortimer noted that while a casual drink with Whitehouse might have focused on making each other laugh, their time fishing allowed for more reflective conversations about their rehabilitation. They continue to support each other through their respective health challenges.