BBC Radio 2 legend Bob Harris has received an outpouring of support after sharing an emotional update on his cancer battle. The 80-year-old broadcaster, known for his distinctive voice, revealed in April that his prostate cancer had spread to his upper spine. Last month, he announced he would step down from his long-running shows Sounds of the 70s and Radio 2 Country due to his health.
Harris Reflects on Career and Decision to Step Back
In his announcement last month, Harris said: "It's incredible to think that my broadcasting career has spanned almost 56 years. I am very fortunate to have spent my entire working life doing something I love so much. I am a massive BBC loyalist, and I'm grateful that I have always been given the freedom to build my programmes in my own way." He added: "Most of my time on air has been spent with my fabulous family at Radio 2 and it has been such a joy to broadcast on this world-class radio station."
Harris expressed pride in the Radio 2 Country Show for helping propel country music to become the fastest-growing genre in the UK, and said presenting Sounds of the 70s on Sunday afternoons was "a real pleasure." He thanked his listeners, saying: "I have put everything I have into every show I've ever done, and it's all been because of you. Your love and loyalty mean more to me than words can ever say." He acknowledged the difficulty of the decision: "This has been one of the hardest decisions of my life, but I would never want to be doing programmes knowing that I am unable to give you 100%."
Instagram Post Reveals Newfound Time and Positivity
On Sunday, July 19, Harris took to Instagram to share how he is coping with not working. Alongside a selfie with his cats in his garden, he wrote: "It's impossible for me to even begin to explain how much I am missing @bbcradio2 going on air and creating programmes for you. I miss my friends, I miss the studios and more than anything, I miss my listeners." However, he noted a silver lining: "But having to step back, after years and years of being busy, I have rediscovered something very special in my life - TIME. Time to spend with my wonderful family and lovely friends... Time to be creative and explore new ideas. And time to just sit in the garden with my cats… a time to reflect how fortunate and blessed I am to be still here to enjoy it all."
He continued: "I am having to accept that I am a slightly different version of myself now. I don't have the stamina of before. But my cancer treatment is going well, my belief in positive thinking has been reinforced and I am embracing this opportunity to let time slow down." He also teased an upcoming project: "And, as I posted a couple of days ago, Team Bob is working on an amazing project for later this year! This is a very special moment to appreciate life and the love that surrounds me. Thank you for the days."
Fans and Followers Rally Around the Radio Icon
The post quickly filled with supportive comments from fans and followers. @inda_okane_ said: "It's only natural after such a busy career. However it might turn out that you start to enjoy this quieter way of being and can still work but at your own pace. Enjoy the garden." @janetoft added: "Well, this a form of broadcasting @whisperingbob. Thank you for continuing to share your world (and cats) with us." @julieef2 wrote: "I miss you on the radio sooo much but you have to do exactly what's right for your health and I keep on hoping just a little that one day soon you'll return to the airwaves." @sarahlouloulea posted: "It's a wise man who is open to accepting change." @ssueb7777 commented: "Bob, you are a ray of sunshine and your positive vibes bowl me over - we are missing you on the airwaves but grateful to see your smiling face." @lyndseystokes noted: "Lovely words Bob, it's not easy stopping what you love, but health comes first."
