BBC Radio 2 veteran Bob Harris has given fans a hopeful update from hospital after undergoing further treatment linked to his long-running prostate cancer battle.
The beloved presenter, now 80, first revealed his diagnosis back in 2008 and has continued working through the years while fronting The Country Show and Sounds of the 70s on Radio 2. But earlier this month, Bob told listeners he needed to temporarily step away from broadcasting as he dealt with what he described as “an issue that has been building for the past few weeks”.
Sharing a photo from hospital, Bob spoke candidly about the setback, saying that people already knew he lives with prostate cancer and that, from time to time, it brings challenges that need urgent attention. He explained that “now is one of these moments”.
Even while receiving treatment, Bob made sure his programmes were prepared in advance. He revealed that that week’s Country Show was ready to air, while the April 12 edition of Sounds of the 70s would be a special 80th birthday celebration he had recorded shortly before attending the C2C Festival alongside his “beautiful friend” Zoe Ball.
He also confirmed that Darius Rucker would step in for Country, while Shaun Keaveny would take over Sounds of the 70s for several weeks as he recovered.
At the time, Bob admitted he could not yet give an exact date for his return, but promised listeners he would “come back stronger”. He added that he hated missing programmes and was eager to return to the studio as soon as possible, while thanking the wider BBC Radio 2 family for standing by him throughout.
Bob also paid an emotional tribute to those closest to him, saying he felt deeply blessed to have the love of his family and the support of friends who had rallied around him during what he called “an unexpectedly testing time”. He also praised his manager, Nick Canham, for being “absolutely amazing”.
Now, in a much brighter update, Bob has revealed he is being discharged in time for his milestone birthday.
Posting on April 10, he wrote: “I’m going home for my birthday!” He also thanked the hospital staff who cared for him during his ten-day stay, calling them an “amazing hospital team” and saying: “Thank you with all my heart. I will always remember your kindness.”
The touching update quickly drew support from his fellow stars. Zoe Ball replied simply: “Love you Bob,” while Lauren Laverne wrote: “Happy Birthday, Bob! Sending tons of love your way xxx.” Sarah Millican also shared her support with “Much love and birthday wishes xx,” and Claudia Winkleman showed she was thinking of him too.
After days of concern, Bob’s latest message has given fans a reason to celebrate — with the much-loved radio icon heading home just in time for his 80th birthday.
