The Wildhearts have announced that frontman and founding member Ginger Wildheart has been diagnosed with Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL), a rare and aggressive form of .
The news was shared in a statement posted to the band’s social media channels on Tuesday.
The band revealed that the musician first began experiencing 'severe pains' during the group’s UK headline tour last December.
According to the statement, Ginger, 61, pushed through the discomfort throughout the More Satanic Rites tour, taking painkillers so he could continue performing without disappointing fans.
After the run of shows, he sought medical tests to uncover the cause of the ongoing pain, and the diagnosis has now been confirmed.
The Wildhearts frontman Ginger Wildheart, 61, has revealed he has been diagnosed with a 'rare and aggressive' form of cancer
According to the statement, Ginger, 61, pushed through the discomfort throughout the More Satanic Rites tour, taking painkillers so he could continue performing without disappointing fans, (pictured in 2019)
The statement began: 'During The Wildhearts’ incredible More Satanic Rites UK tour in December 2025, frontman and founding member Ginger Wildheart was experiencing severe pains that some nights forced him to take some short breaks from stage.
'Determined not to upset the band’s loyal fans – new and old – Ginger took painkillers to ensure the rock’n’roll was delivered, without missing a riff…
'We are saddened to report that Ginger has been diagnosed with Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL) – a rare but aggressive strain of cancer.'
According to Macmillan, Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).
MCL develops when B-cells become abnormal (cancerous). B-cells are white blood cells that normally help fight infection. They are sometimes called B-lymphocytes.
The abnormal B-cells (lymphoma cells) usually build up in lymph nodes, but they can affect other parts of the body.
Despite the diagnosis, the band said Ginger remains in 'fine fettle' and is continuing to write new music.
All scheduled live commitments — including next month’s appearance at Takedown Festival — are still set to go ahead as planned.
The news was shared in a statement posted to the band’s social media channels on Tuesday
The band have asked fans for support and positivity as Ginger begins the next stage of his treatment and recovery.
It continued: 'While we process this news and await further medical advice, Ginger wants everyone to know that strength and positivity will prevail and the show will go on.
'Make sure you come and see The Wildhearts – sounding bigger and more refreshingly amazing than ever – at a venue near you soon.'
