Radio veteran Paul Gambaccini has revealed that he has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. The BBC Radio 2 star shared the news in a statement, saying he was diagnosed with the condition early last year.
Gambaccini, quoting Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, 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 normal.’
Despite his diagnosis, Gambaccini will continue to host his regular shows on BBC Radio 2 and Greatest Hits Radio. He expressed gratitude for the kindness and support he has already received, and plans to be open about his condition as it progresses.
Gambaccini and his husband, Christopher Sherwood, have been receiving support from a leading charity since his diagnosis. The charity’s chief executive said that Gambaccini’s decision to speak publicly about his condition shows that ‘there can be life after a dementia diagnosis’.
The charity’s chief executive also emphasized the importance of early diagnosis, saying that it can open the door to receiving treatment and support. She hopes that Gambaccini’s public disclosure will encourage others to spot the symptoms and seek help if they are worried about themselves or a loved one.
Gambaccini, nicknamed ‘The Great Gambo’, has had a long and distinguished career in radio, joining BBC Radio 1 in 1974. He has worked at several stations, including BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Radio 2, and has also been a familiar face on television through his film reviews.
