Spandau Ballet icon Martin Kemp has bravely revealed the harrowing details of his near-fatal health battle that saw him confront death not once, but twice during the 1990s.
The Diagnosis That Changed Everything
At the peak of his fame, the 62-year-old star received devastating news that would alter his life forever. Doctors discovered not one, but two benign brain tumours that threatened to end his career and his life.
"I was told I had a brain tumour the size of a fist and a smaller one behind it," Kemp disclosed during an emotional interview on the White Wine Question Time podcast. The revelation came as a complete shock to the actor and musician, who had been experiencing concerning symptoms.
A Race Against Time
Kemp's medical journey became a terrifying rollercoaster when surgeons delivered the chilling news that he had mere hours to live unless they operated immediately. "They told me I had two hours to live unless they operated," he recalled, the memory still vivid decades later.
The first surgery successfully removed the larger tumour, but the victory was short-lived. Just two years later, the smaller tumour began to grow, forcing Kemp to undergo another life-threatening operation.
The Emotional Aftermath
Beyond the physical trauma, Kemp revealed the profound psychological impact of his health battles. "I was never scared of dying during that time," he confessed, explaining how the experience fundamentally changed his perspective on life and mortality.
The ordeal took an immense toll on his family, particularly his wife Shirlie Holliman, former backing singer for Wham! and close friend of George Michael. Kemp described how his health crisis brought them closer together while simultaneously testing their strength as a couple.
A New Outlook on Life
Despite the trauma, Kemp emerged from his health battles with renewed purpose and appreciation for life. His experiences gave him a unique perspective that he carries to this day, influencing both his personal life and his approach to his career in entertainment.
The star, who continues to work in television and music, considers himself fortunate to have survived what many wouldn't, and uses his platform to raise awareness about brain health and the importance of early detection.
