Spandau Ballet icon Martin Kemp has revealed the shocking truth about his health crisis in the 1990s, admitting he feels "lucky" to have survived with his mental faculties intact after being diagnosed with two brain tumours.
The Diagnosis That Changed Everything
During what should have been the peak of his career, the bassist and actor received devastating news that would change his life forever. Doctors discovered not one, but two benign brain tumours that required immediate treatment.
"I was lucky I didn't lose my mind," Kemp confessed in a recent emotional interview, reflecting on the terrifying period that saw him undergo extensive radiotherapy treatment.
A Star's Silent Struggle
While fans saw the glamorous pop star performing to sold-out crowds, behind the scenes Kemp was fighting for his life. The treatment left him physically and mentally drained, with the 62-year-old admitting the experience was far more traumatic than he's previously let on.
What made his situation particularly cruel was the timing - striking just as his acting career was taking off following his memorable role in The Krays.
Living in the Shadow of Illness
Even after successful treatment, the spectre of the tumours continues to haunt Kemp. He revealed that he still carries the fear that the growths could return at any moment, a psychological burden he's carried for decades.
"Every time I have a headache, that little demon in the back of my head says, 'It's come back,'" the star shared, highlighting the lasting psychological impact of his health battle.
A New Perspective on Life
Despite the trauma, Kemp credits the experience with giving him a renewed appreciation for life. His journey serves as an inspiration to others facing similar health challenges, proving that even the darkest medical diagnoses can be overcome.
The star's candid revelations about his health struggles offer a powerful reminder of the human side of celebrity and the hidden battles many public figures face away from the spotlight.
