Antiques Roadshow star Theo Burrell has provided a major health update four years after being diagnosed with a glioblastoma brain tumour. In a candid Instagram post on Saturday, June 27, 2026, she revealed that she was initially expected to live for only 12 to 18 months following her diagnosis in June 2022.
Diagnosis and Initial Treatment
Burrell, who is a familiar face on the beloved BBC series, was diagnosed with a grade four glioblastoma at the age of 35. She had experienced symptoms including pressurised headaches, sickness, vision problems, pulsating tinnitus, and pins and needles for around six months before a CT scan at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary confirmed the presence of a 6cm tumour in her right temporal lobe.
She underwent surgery six days later, where over 90% of the tumour was removed using 5ALA. Burrell then completed six weeks of radiotherapy alongside chemotherapy with Temozolomide, followed by six rounds of adjuvant chemo, finishing treatment in March 2023. She enjoyed stable scans until September 2024.
Regrowth and Further Surgery
In December 2024, a scan revealed early regrowth, prompting 11 rounds of chemotherapy to control the tumour. However, in December 2025, a routine scan showed a 3cm regrowth. Burrell had a second surgery in January 2026, where approximately 70% of the tumour was removed, followed by two weeks of re-radiation in February 2026.
She is now awaiting a scan to determine if the treatment has stabilised her condition. Burrell described the past few years as “a series of ups and downs,” focusing on staying well and enjoying life. She suffers from regular headaches and fatigue, and has learned to pace herself.
Four-Year Milestone and Determination
Sharing a picture of trees surrounding a lake, Burrell reflected on her journey: “In the wake of that news I had many dark thoughts including that I wouldn't see my son's 2nd birthday let alone him starting school, but I'm lucky enough to say I did! And no one can take that away from me.”
She noted that life after her second surgery has been “up and down,” with a loss of peripheral vision on the left side and reduced coordination. However, she expressed gratitude for a four-night trip to the Lakes with her husband Alex and parents, enjoying the warm weather.
“Of course the next scan looms but I've dug deep and found a new bit of determination ... to say to the GBM 'I will not give up,'” she wrote, adding, “So if you're in the brain cancer world along with me - you're not alone and we've just got to take it slowly but surely - every day we make is a bit of a win for us and a 'GET LOST!' to the illness!”
Support from Followers
Burrell’s followers flooded the comments with support. @karellw said: “What a strong girl. Enjoy the beautiful lakes, such a special place.” @alexajaneross added: “Thinking of you guys Theo.” @easton_000 wrote: “I don’t think you will ever realise what an inspiration you are to people.” @rjjburke posted: “Theo you remain a complete and utter inspiration.”
Burrell continues to share her journey as a patron for the Brain Tumour Research charity while being a mother to her five-year-old son.
