BBC Radio 2 and Greatest Hits Radio presenter Paul Gambaccini has publicly announced that he has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. The 77-year-old broadcaster, who made his Radio 1 debut in 1973 as the network's youngest broadcaster, shared the news in an emotional statement on Friday, July 10, 2026.
Gambaccini's Statement and Continued Broadcasting
In his statement, Gambaccini quoted Freddie Mercury: "You can't turn back the clock, you can't turn back the tide. Ain't that a shame." He revealed that he was diagnosed in early 2025, adding: "There's no denying it's a serious condition with an uncertain future, but for now, life goes on as normal, and I continue to broadcast The Paul Gambaccini Collection on BBC Radio 2 from 8-10pm on Sundays and my shows on Greatest Hits Radio." He expressed gratitude for the kindness and support he has already received and pledged to be as open as possible about his condition while asking for space to continue broadcasting.
Support from Alzheimer's Society
Since his diagnosis, Gambaccini and his husband, Christopher Sherwood, have received support from the Alzheimer's Society. The charity's CEO, Michelle Dyson CB, commented: "Paul's experience shows that there can be life after a dementia diagnosis - his fans will be delighted at his decision to carry on hosting his shows." She added: "Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be frightening, but it can also open the door to receiving treatment and support. We hope that by sharing his diagnosis, Paul will encourage others to spot the symptoms and reach out if they are worried about themselves or a loved one." Dyson emphasized that earlier diagnosis improves the chances of continuing to do the things one loves and planning for the future.
Context and Recent Similar Announcements
Gambaccini concluded his long-running show on Greatest Hits Radio in February 2026, shifting his focus to special music documentaries. His announcement comes weeks after Channel 4 news anchor Jon Snow received his own Alzheimer's diagnosis and shared his experience in a documentary titled Jon Snow: A Last Big Story, which aired on June 20, 2026. The Alzheimer's Society provides a dementia support line at 0333 150 3456 and resources on their website.
