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DJ Bob Harris Reveals Prostate Cancer Has Spread to Spine, Starting Recovery

BBC Radio 2's Bob Harris reveals his prostate cancer has spread to his spine. After radiotherapy and rehab, he is on the path to recovery and plans to return to broadcasting in May.

·2 min read
BBC Bob Harris sitting on an orange sofa against a light blue curtain, in March 2026

Bob Harris Shares Health Update

BBC Radio 2 presenter Bob Harris has revealed that his prostate cancer has spread to his spine, but he is "now on the pathway to recovery."

The DJ, who has hosted The Country Show on BBC Radio 2 since 1999, described the recent weeks as "an extremely testing time."

In a post on Instagram, Harris explained that he had spent time in hospital as doctors sought to identify the cause of severe back pain he was experiencing.

"Several scans later, we discovered that my prostate cancer has got into my upper spine,"

he said, calling the diagnosis "really frightening news."

Following the diagnosis, Harris began a course of radiotherapy, which required a two-week hospital stay to manage the condition.

"Thankfully I'm back at home now, on the pathway to recovery and feeling stronger every day."

He has commenced a rehabilitation program and expressed gratitude to his family for their significant support during this challenging period.

"Being here for me in a massive way, helping me through one of the most difficult times of my life."

Support from BBC Radio 2 and Colleagues

Harris acknowledged the support he has received from BBC Radio 2, stating they have been "supportive beyond words." He intends to return to the station as soon as possible.

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"I hope to return to my country music show, as well as my other programme Sounds of the 70s, in May,"

he added,

"I absolutely cannot wait to be back."

In his absence, Darius Rucker and Shaun Keaveny have been hosting his shows.

Recently, BBC Radio 2 celebrated Harris's 80th birthday with a special pre-recorded conversation between him and former breakfast host Zoe Ball.

BBC Radio 2 commented on Harris's Instagram post, saying:

"We can't wait to have you back. Get well soon Bob!"

Fellow presenter Trevor Nelson wrote:

"Hope to hear you back on air soon mate. I know how much you live it and we're missing you."

Lauren Laverne sent her best wishes,

"Sending lots of love and good luck with the treatment."

While Shaun Keaveny added,

"We can't wait to get you back when you're fully rested."

Career Highlights

Bob Harris has been a broadcaster with the BBC for over five decades. His career includes hosting The Old Grey Whistle Test and programmes on BBC Radio Oxford and Radio 1.

This article was sourced from bbc

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