Paul Gambaccini, who has presented on the BBC for over 50 years, has confirmed that he has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
In a statement, the 77-year-old said: "As Freddie Mercury once sang, you can't turn back the clock, you can't turn back the tide. Ain't that a shame. In early 2025 I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
"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 continued: "I'm grateful for the kindness and support I’ve already received. I will be as open as I can as things progress. For now, I wish to be given the space to keep on broadcasting the music I love to the listeners I love even more. These are the days of our lives."
Since the diagnosis, the star and his husband, Christopher Sherwood, have been supported by the Alzheimer's Society. The charity's chief executive, Michelle Dyson, said: "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."
Paul Gambaccini's incredible career
Known as 'The Great Gambo', Paul has been broadcasting since 1967, initially working at his university's now defunct radio station, WDCR. In 1973, he interviewed pop icon Elton John, which brought him to the attention of the BBC.
He made his BBC Radio 1 debut in 1974, remaining with the station for 12 years until 1986. He has also worked on the likes of Radio 2, Radio 3 and Radio 4, even contributing to their long-running arts programme Kaleidoscope between 1975 and 1998.
© RedfernsAlongside his radio career, Paul has also worked as a broadcaster, including co-hosting coverage of Live Aid back in 1985. He also contributed reviews to breakfast shows, while appearing on Pebble Mill at One and Call My Bluff.
However, his career was marred in 2013 when he was arrested on suspicion of historical sexual offences as part of an investigation by Operation Yewtree in the United Kingdom. Paul denied all charges against him, and the following year, it was confirmed that no charges would be brought against the star.
© Getty Images for Orion BooksIn 2017, he sued the Metropolitan Police, and the following year, the case was settled out of court, with Paul being paid an undisclosed figure.
