Category: James Whale

James Whale gives devastating health update as star says he’s ‘at the end’ of cancer journey and there are ‘no treatments left’
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James Whale has given a devastating health update as the star said he’s ‘at the end’ of cancer journey and there are ‘no treatments left’.

James, 73, is battling stage four kidney cancer that has spread to his spine, brain and lungs and had previously said Christmas 2023 could be his last after stopping treatment.

Making the announcement with his Talk co-host Ash Gould by his side, on Monday he shared: ‘I’m at the end of my cancer journey. There is no treatment I can have anymore.’

He added: ‘I can’t tell you how grateful I am to Talk to actually let me on the air and sit next to Ash, which is a real pain in the butt, but I’ve been doing it for 25 years!’

James said his recent ill health had taken its toll on him due to a severe bout of flu which led to an intensive care stay.

Despite his health, James managed to joke: ‘It might actually be helping me, you never know, so I don’t let that cloud my judgment – but on the medication I am on, I’m all over the place.

James was diagnosed with stage four kidney cancer in 2020. He was previously given just three months to live when he contracted kidney cancer in 2000 (throwback image)

‘I’m hoping to go on for another few weeks, few months but as soon as I can’t do the show anymore, I won’t.’

Celebrity Big Brother star James spent Christmas in intensive care after being rushed to hospital amid his terminal cancer battle.

He was hospitalised with the flu and was then discharged from the ICU to recover at home.

His relieved wife Nadine, 59, told fans at the time: ‘After a worrying week I am happy to report that @THEJamesWhale is out of ICU and back at home, having batted off the Grim Reaper yet again.

‘This time he tried with a bout of Influenza A, but without success. Our hero is home for NYE.’

James received an MBE for services to broadcasting and charity back in April 2024.

Stepping out on the special day James wore a navy suit, crisp white shirt and patterned blue tie.

By his side Nadine looked lovely in a white dress and pale blue coat and wore a matching hat.

Last December after learning about his MBE milestone, James said: ‘Nobody could have been more surprised than me thank you to all the guys who made it possible over the years everybody at Talk Radio and TV and everywhere.

‘I’ve worked since the 70s and the guys that run the Charity kidney cancer UK, thank you all this is for us.’

Kidney Cancer UK said: ‘We are very proud that our founder and Lifetime President @TheJamesWhale was awarded an MBE in the New Years Honours List. Congratulations James.’

James began his career with Metro Radio in 1974 where he pioneered the late-night radio phone-in.

He rose to fame in the 1980s with his frank style, dry wit and no-nonsense approach on late-night programme The James Whale Radio Show, gaining a legion of loyal listeners.

The host then spent 13 years at TalkSport before hosting the drivetime show on LBC and the breakfast show on BBC Essex.

During his career he also hosted Whale On, Dial Midnight and Central Weekend Live for ITV, and Talk About for BBC One.

His autobiography Almost A Celebrity: A Lifetime Of Night-Time was published in 2008 and he later launched a new version of The James Whale Radio Show.

Last year, he was awarded the first ever Tric Recognition Award for his 50 years in broadcasting.

Richard Wallace, head of TalkTV, said about the MBE: ‘There are legends – and then there’s James Whale. This award is a fitting acknowledgement of a maverick talent who has entertained TV and radio audiences with inimitable style for more than 50 years.’

Dennie Morris, director of audio and news broadcasting, said: ‘James is not only a giant of radio and television, but one of the loveliest men I’ve ever met.

‘His contribution to the industry and to charity over the years has been remarkable. I can think of no one more deserving of this honour.’

Celebrity Big BrotherJames Whale

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James Whale gives devastating health update as star says he’s ‘at the end’ of cancer journey and there are ‘no treatments left’
May 5, 2025
Former EastEnders actor makes return to television after suffering a stroke on live show.

Bobby Davro is set to make his showbiz comeback this summer, months after collapsing during a live show after suffering a stroke.

The ex EastEnders star, 65, has spent the past four months recuperating at home after being discharged from hospital and is now ready to return to the stage, announcing his plans to premiere a show at the Edinburgh Fringe.

The Sun report that the new comedy set will be called Everything Is Funny If You Can Laugh At It, and is set to run from August 2 until August 25.

Bobby said: ‘With the laughter still ringing in my ears from the couple of Edinburgh gigs I did last Summer, I thought I’d come back and do the full run this year.

Bobby Davro is set to make his showbiz comeback this summer months after collapsing during a live show after suffering a stroke

‘I hope to prove two things – you’re never too old for a good gag and everything is funny if you can laugh at it. So if you like to laugh, come along – and don’t forget, if you’re on the frontline, you’re in the punchline! See you in August!’

Bobby has revealed his collapse in January was a ‘wake up call’ after doctors informed him his blood pressure was dangerously high and the stroke left him slurring.

Last month the star received a standing ovation and cheers from the crowd as he performed at radio broadcaster James Whale’s MBE celebration.

The comedian reportedly told the audience about his health struggles after the death of his fiancée Vicky Wright from pancreatic cancer.

The event was held at Langan’s Brasserie in Mayfair and was a resounding success for Bobby.

The former EastEnders star had cancelled all public appearances following his collapse at the Coulsdon Comedy club, South London.

Bobby had just come off stage following a standing ovation at the sell-out gig before he suffered what he has described as a ‘funny turn’.

He had returned to work the day after Vicky’s tragic death aged 63 last May.

The ex EastEnders star, 65, has spent the past four months recuperating at home after being discharged from hospital and is now ready to return to the stage, announcing his plans to premiere a show at the Edinburgh Fringe

The light entertainer later shared a message expressing his heartache over Vicky’s passing, which he described as ‘devastating’.

He wrote: ‘It’s been just over a week since my beautiful @vickywright5459 left this world and its only now I feel strong enough to share my feelings.

‘I want to thank everyone for their support and expressions of love and kindness you have shown me and Vicky’s family and loved ones…

‘To think we will never hear her voice to hear laughter look into her beautiful eyes see her smile to hold her and to kiss her is devastating and so incredibly painful.

‘She will be in my thoughts and in my heart forever. She was my Schluffe and I loved her and always will.’

The comedian has discussed his health struggles in the wake of the death of his fiancée Vicky Wright from pancreatic cancer in 2023 (pictured in 2010)

Bobby then shared a photo of Vicky and wrote: ‘I will miss you so very much and I will love you forever. RIP my beautiful Schluffe. No more pain darling. No more pain.’

The star had previously discussed Vicky’s cancer fight, admitting that it had been ‘horrific and extremely painful’ to see the love of his life get so sick.

He said: ‘To see someone as beautiful as her with this illness is horrific. It’s so sad. It’s extremely, extremely, extremely painful…

‘My best advice for someone in a similar position is that laughter is the best medicine.

‘I always remember this quote: ‘Don’t let the world change your smile – get your smile to change the world.’

The comedian also admitted he was ‘drinking, smoking and not looking after myself’ as he watched his fiancée lose her battle with cancer.

The comedian was left devastated when his partner – the daughter of legendary late England captain Billy Wright and Beverley Sisters singer Joy Beverley – passed away on May 4

Davro added he had been suffering extreme ‘stress’ since Vicky was diagnosed with the disease.

He spoke in a podcast called Eyes And Teeth hosted by the comedy ventriloquist Steve Hewlett, recorded a few days before Vicky’s death.

‘I’m drinking, I’m smoking, I’m not looking after myself,’ he said. ‘I have a little bit of grief in my life – my lovely fiancée has got cancer unfortunately and it has brought a lot of stress.’

He added: ‘I haven’t done a lot of social networking because obviously I’ve had a few private issues with my fiancée and it’s been difficult.

‘So I haven’t really had a chance to do a lot of social networking but I’m going to try and get someone in to help me so I can get it out there.’

Davro had revealed his partner’s pancreatic cancer diagnosis to the Daily Star Sunday newspaper in April, days before Vicky’s death was confirmed by her daughter, Kelly.

She wrote: ‘Hello everyone… Some incredibly devastating news to share…

Vicky’s father Billy Wright, who spent his entire footballing career with Wolverhampton Wanderers, died from the same form of cancer in 1994

‘My wonderful mum Vicky has sadly passed away this morning. I wanted to use this platform to let you all know, as I know how much she valued all your love and support in so many ways.’

Davro proposed to Vicky in 2022 after 12 years of dating on and off.

Her father Billy Wright, who spent his entire footballing career with Wolverhampton Wanderers, died from the same form of cancer in 1994.

She had performed as a singer and actress, following in the footsteps of her mother Joy Beverley, one third of the Beverley Sisters.

Vicky also took the stage to perform a one-woman show about her father called the Billy Wright Story.

May 9, 2024
Penelope Cruz Channels 1930s Elegance as she Talks to Director Maggie Gyllenhaal on the Set of Bride of Frankenstein Reboot “The Bride”

Penelope Cruz took a step back in time to the 1930s as she was spotted on-set for her upcoming movie The Bride on Wednesday.

The Vanilla Sky star, 50, looked incredible in a checked skirt suit with a matching blazer while transforming her look entirely with a bobbed hairdo and short fringe.

She sparked a cigarette and leaned against a police car suited to the decade.

Between poses, the star chatted to superstar director Maggie Gyllenhaal, 46, who stood out boldly against the 1930s set in a very modern khaki jacket and cargos.

Maggie sits at the helm of the project, and has also cast Jessie Buckley, Christian Bale, Annette Benning and her husband, Peter Sarsgaard in the film, which is a remake of James Whale’s 1935 classic horror Bride Of Frankenstein.

Penelope Cruz took a step back in time to the 1930s as she was spotted on-set for her upcoming movie The Bride on Wednesday

Between poses, the star chatted to superstar director Maggie Gyllenhaal, 46, who stood out boldly against the 1930s set in a very modern khaki jacket and cargos

Her checked suit comprised a fitted jacket with pockets and a midi skirt while she paired the look with red lace-up heeled brogues

While little is known of the characters in the film, which is sue for release next year, Penelope, who is playing Myrna, looked to be involved in the police.

Her checked suit comprised a fitted jacket with pockets and a midi skirt while she paired the look with red lace-up heeled brogues.

The brunette beauty’s hairdo deemed her near-unrecognisable as she shed her usual flowing locks in favour of the choppy bob and short fringe.

A slick of red lipstick coordinated with both her shoes, top and the fine red stripe included in the checked detail of the suit.

It has been reported that the movie will cost in the realms of $80million and Christian has been named as Frankenstein’s monster while Jessie will play the Bride.

The tagline for the film reads: ‘A lonely Frankenstein travels to 1930s Chicago to seek the aide of a Dr. Euphronius in creating a companion for himself…

‘The two reinvigorate a murdered young woman and the Bride is born. She is beyond what either of them intended, igniting a combustible romance, the attention of the police and a wild and radical social movement.’

She flashed a smile as she sat in the car while rocking her unrecognisable look

Maggie clutched a microphone during her animated chat with the star

On Tuesday, her co-stars Christian and Jessie were also seen on-set, where they shared an extremely steamy kiss while in character.

The film marks a reunion for Bale and Gyllenhaal, who starred alongside one another in 2008’s Batman film The Dark Knight.

This film tells the story of 1930s Chicago. Frankenstein asks Dr. Euphronius to help create a companion. They give life to a murdered woman as the Bride, sparking romance, police interest, and radical social change.

Ahead of production, Christian opened up about going bald for the role during his groundbreaking ceremony for the California foster homes.

‘I’ve got to shave my head next week [for a movie]. I asked them to please let me hold off on doing that but everyone was going, “What’s wrong with Bale? What’s up with him?”‘ Bale said.

‘I said, “Just let me get through the groundbreaking and then I’ll be off to join you,”‘ Bale said, adding he was starting preparations soon.

‘I’ll be working with the wonderful Maggie, Jessie and so many talented actors in the cast,’ he said.

A slick of red lipstick coordinated with both her shoes, top and the fine red stripe included in the checked detail of the suit

On Tuesday, her co-stars Christian and Jessie were also seen on-set, where they shared an extremely steamy kiss while in character

The Batman actor is portraying as Dr. Frankenstein’s Monster in the movie, while his co-star Jessie plays the spooky bride

Her day at work comes after Penelope joined a slew of stars including Irina Shayk and her husband Javier Bardem for a night on the town.

Sharing various snaps from the party to mark her milestone birthday on Sunday, Penelope looked to be having a wild night on the town.

Italian fashion designer Riccardo Tisci took to Instagram to share a stunning snap showing Penelope beaming alongside pals including model Irina.

He simply penned: ‘HB @penelopecruzofficial’ beneath the photo.

The brunette beauty’s hairdo deemed her near-unrecognisable as she shed her usual flowing locks in favour of the choppy bob and short fringe

Penelope’s on-set outing comes after she celebrated her 50th birthday with celeb pals

The Hollywood beauty joined a slew of stars including Irina Shayk and her actor husband Javier Bardem for a night on the town, which was shared on social media

May 2, 2024
Bobby Davro, 65, gets a standing ovation as he makes a triumphant return to stand-up comedy after recovering from a minor stroke during a live performance

Bobby Davro has returned to performing stand-up after he collapsed from a minor stroke while on stage in January.

The actor, 65, revealed the incident was a ‘wake up call’ after doctors informed him his blood pressure was dangerously high and the stroke left him slurring like Pirates Of The Caribbean’s Jack Sparrow.

According to The Sun, Bobby received a standing ovation and cheers from the crowd as he performed at radio broadcaster James Whale’s MBE celebration.

The comedian reportedly told the audience about his health struggles after the death of his fiancée Vicky Wright from pancreatic cancer.

The event was held at Langan’s Brasserie in Mayfair and was a resounding success for Bobby.

Bobby Davro has returned to performing stand-up after he collapsed from a minor stroke while on stage

The actor, 65, revealed the incident was a ‘wake up call’ after doctors informed him his blood pressure was dangerously high and the stroke left him slurring like Pirates Of The Caribbean’s Jack Sparrow

The former EastEnders star had cancelled all public appearances following his collapse at the Coulsdon Comedy club, South London.

Bobby had just come off stage following a standing ovation at the sell-out gig before he suffered what he has described as a ‘funny turn’.

He had returned to work the day after Vicky’s tragic death aged 63 last May.

The light entertainer later shared a message expressing his heartache over Vicky’s passing, which he described as ‘devastating’.

He wrote: ‘It’s been just over a week since my beautiful @vickywright5459 left this world and its only now I feel strong enough to share my feelings.

‘I want to thank everyone for their support and expressions of love and kindness you have shown me and Vicky’s family and loved ones…

‘To think we will never hear her voice to hear laughter look into her beautiful eyes see her smile to hold her and to kiss her is devastating and so incredibly painful.

‘She will be in my thoughts and in my heart forever. She was my Schluffe and I loved her and always will.’

Bobby received a standing ovation and cheers from the crowd as he performed at radio broadcaster James Whale’s MBE celebration

The comedian reportedly told the audience about his health struggles after the death of his fiancée Vicky Wright from pancreatic cancer (pictured in 2010)

Bobby then shared a photo of Vicky and wrote: ‘I will miss you so very much and I will love you forever. RIP my beautiful Schluffe. No more pain darling. No more pain.’

The star had previously discussed Vicky’s cancer fight, admitting that it had been ‘horrific and extremely painful’ to see the love of his life get so sick.

He said: ‘To see someone as beautiful as her with this illness is horrific. It’s so sad. It’s extremely, extremely, extremely painful…

‘My best advice for someone in a similar position is that laughter is the best medicine.

‘I always remember this quote: ‘Don’t let the world change your smile – get your smile to change the world.’

The comedian also admitted he was ‘drinking, smoking and not looking after myself’ as he watched his fiancée lose her battle with cancer.

The comedian was left devastated when his partner – the daughter of legendary late England captain Billy Wright and Beverley Sisters singer Joy Beverley – passed away on May 4

Davro added he had been suffering extreme ‘stress’ since Vicky was diagnosed with the disease.

He spoke in a podcast called Eyes And Teeth hosted by the comedy ventriloquist Steve Hewlett, recorded a few days before Vicky’s death.

‘I’m drinking, I’m smoking, I’m not looking after myself,’ he said. ‘I have a little bit of grief in my life – my lovely fiancée has got cancer unfortunately and it has brought a lot of stress.’

He added: ‘I haven’t done a lot of social networking because obviously I’ve had a few private issues with my fiancée and it’s been difficult.

‘So I haven’t really had a chance to do a lot of social networking but I’m going to try and get someone in to help me so I can get it out there.’

Davro had revealed his partner’s pancreatic cancer diagnosis to the Daily Star Sunday newspaper in April, days before Vicky’s death was confirmed by her daughter, Kelly.

She wrote: ‘Hello everyone… Some incredibly devastating news to share…

Vicky’s father Billy Wright, who spent his entire footballing career with Wolverhampton Wanderers, died from the same form of cancer in 1994

Bobby was previously married to Trudi Jameson, with whom he shares three children (pictured together in 2014, eleven years after their divorce)

‘My wonderful mum Vicky has sadly passed away this morning. I wanted to use this platform to let you all know, as I know how much she valued all your love and support in so many ways.’

Davro proposed to Vicky in 2022 after 12 years of dating on and off.

Her father Billy Wright, who spent his entire footballing career with Wolverhampton Wanderers, died from the same form of cancer in 1994.

She had performed as a singer and actress, following in the footsteps of her mother Joy Beverley, one third of the Beverley Sisters.

Vicky also took the stage to perform a one-woman show about her father called the Billy Wright Story.

April 18, 2024
James Whale, accompanied by his wife Nadine, radiates elegance as he heads to Windsor Castle to receive his MBE despite his battle with terminal kidney cancer.

James Whale looked smart as he headed to Windsor Castle on Wednesday to receive his MBE for services to broadcasting and charity.

The radio personality and television presenter, 72, was joined by his wife Nadine Talbot-Brown to attend the ceremony.

James is battling stage four kidney cancer that has spread to his spine, brain and lungs and last September said Christmas 2023 could be his last after stopping treatment.

Stepping out on the special day James wore a navy suit, crisp white shirt and patterned blue tie.

By his side Nadine, 58, looked lovely in a white dress and pale blue coat and wore a matching hat.

James Whale looked smart as he headed to Windsor Castle on Wednesday to receive his MBE for services to broadcasting and charity

The radio personality and television presenter, 72, was joined by his wife Nadine Talbot-Brown to attend the ceremony

Last December after learning about his MBE milestone, James said: ‘Nobody could have been more surprised than me thank you to all the guys who made it possible over the years everybody at Talk Radio and TV and everywhere.

‘I’ve worked since the 70s and the guys that run the Charity kidney cancer UK, thank you all this is for us.’

Kidney Cancer UK said: ‘We are very proud that our founder and Lifetime President @TheJamesWhale was awarded an MBE in the New Years Honours List. Congratulations James.’

James began his career with Metro Radio in 1974 where he pioneered the late-night radio phone-in.

He rose to fame in the 1980s with his frank style, dry wit and no-nonsense approach on late-night programme The James Whale Radio Show, gaining a legion of loyal listeners.

The host then spent 13 years at TalkSport before hosting the drivetime show on LBC and the breakfast show on BBC Essex.

During his career he also hosted Whale On, Dial Midnight and Central Weekend Live for ITV, and Talk About for BBC One.

Whale’s autobiography Almost A Celebrity: A Lifetime Of Night-Time was published in 2008 and he later launched a new version of The James Whale Radio Show.

Stepping out on the special day James wore a navy suit, crisp white shirt and patterned blue tie

They left Coworth Park in Berkshire to head to the ceremony

Millionaire plumber Charlie Mullins OBE was very generous and gave his Rolls Royce and Bentley to James for the day to get them to the castle in style for the big day

They drove to the location in the swanky cars

James is battling stage four kidney cancer that has spread to his spine, brain and lungs and last September said Christmas 2023 could be his last after stopping treatment (seen Dec 2023)

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, to comment on his MBE milestone at the time, James said: ‘Nobody could have been more surprised than me thank you to all the guys who made it possible’

Kidney Cancer UK said: ‘We are very proud that our founder and Lifetime President @TheJamesWhale was awarded an MBE’

Last year James was awarded the first ever Tric Recognition Award for his 50 years in broadcasting

James was diagnosed with stage four kidney cancer in 2020. He was previously given just three months to live when he contracted kidney cancer in 2000

Last year, he was awarded the first ever Tric Recognition Award for his 50 years in broadcasting.

Richard Wallace, head of TalkTV, said about the MBE: ‘There are legends – and then there’s James Whale. This award is a fitting acknowledgement of a maverick talent who has entertained TV and radio audiences with inimitable style for more than 50 years.’

Dennie Morris, director of audio and news broadcasting, said: ‘James is not only a giant of radio and television, but one of the loveliest men I’ve ever met.

‘His contribution to the industry and to charity over the years has been remarkable. I can think of no one more deserving of this honour.’

James was diagnosed with stage four kidney cancer in 2020. He was previously given just three months to live when he contracted kidney cancer in 2000.

In September, James explained he has chosen ‘quality of life’ over quantity after ending his treatment and focuses on ‘making memories.’

He told The Sun: ‘This could be my last Christmas.

‘Basically, I have to choose between the quality and quantity of life and I’ve chosen quality so that I can have a good time and make great memories with my lovely wife, Nadine.

‘I’ve had a good life, I can’t complain. But I’m just gonna make the next months as entertaining and interesting as I can, which is all any of us can do.’

Elsewhere in the interview, James heartbreakingly spoke about the struggles of his terminal cancer, admitting he doesn’t want to ‘go on forever’ feeling as unwell as he does now.

The TV personality also reflected on his marriage with wife Nadine, saying he told her they should ‘cool off’ their romance when he was first diagnosed with cancer when they first started dating.

James began his career with Metro Radio in 1974 where he pioneered the late-night radio phone-in (pictured in 1998)

In September 2023, James explained he has chosen ‘quality of life’ over quantity after ending his treatment (James and wife Nadine pictured in June)

He said: ‘It was so unfair on her, so I said, ‘I think we should cool it and not see each other’, and she replied, ‘Oh that’s nice, so if I’d just been diagnosed with a terminal illness, you wouldn’t come and see me any more’, so we carried on.’

They then got married at Tenterden Town Hall in Kent surrounded by their loved ones in October 2021, with Nadine saying they didn’t have the ‘luxury’ of time.

James lost his first wife Melinda to lung cancer in May 2018.

James and Melinda were married for 48 years and had two sons James and Peter. They also have two teenage grandchildren, Oscar and Ella.

April 17, 2024