Richard Fidler, the longtime host of ABC Radio's Conversations, has revealed that his three-month disappearance from the airwaves last year was due to his wife Khym's cancer diagnosis and treatment. In an exclusive interview, Fidler shared that Khym was diagnosed with a nasopharyngeal tumour, a condition prevalent in Southeast Asia, and underwent 13 weeks of chemotherapy alongside seven weeks of daily radiation.
Fidler, 60, took carer's leave from the show from October to December without any public announcement. He described the treatment as 'extremely punishing but extremely effective,' noting that it left Khym's neck inflamed, destroyed her taste buds temporarily, and caused significant damage to her saliva glands. The couple waited three months for the effects to subside before learning the outcome.
In March, Khym's oncologist declared her cancer-free, using the word 'pristine' to describe her scan. 'It's a really lovely word to hear from an oncologist,' Fidler said. 'She's going to take a while to fully recover but she's going to be fine.' The couple have been together for 34 years and married for 32.
Fidler, who co-hosts Conversations with Sarah Kanowski, reflected on his interview style, which he says is driven by 'authentic curiosity.' He admitted that he rarely talks to someone uninterrupted for an hour in his private life, not even his wife. 'It's eye contact, curiosity and knowing when to keep your mouth shut,' he explained.
Walking through Sydney's Potts Point, where he and Khym moved years ago, Fidler recalled the area's grittier past, contrasting it with the serene scene today. Despite his fame, few recognise him on the street, though many may recognise his voice from the radio.
