TalkTV’s James Whale Shares Emotional Update on Terminal Cancer Battle

TalkTV presenter James Whale took to social media on Sunday to share an emotional update about his terminal cancer battle – admitting that he ‘hasn’t got much longer’. 

The Big Brother star, 74, choked up as he wished his grandson a happy birthday and reflected on his own morality in the heartfelt message.  

He said: ‘I’m not terribly well in the final stages of cancer, but I just want to tell my grandson how proud I am of him.

‘He’s a Royal Marine and he’s been a Royal Marine for over six months, nearly a year now, he got through all his training, and I am so, so proud, you have no idea.’

James was first diagnosed with liver cancer in February of 2020 but despite having preventative treatment, he revealed that year that it had spread to his spine, brain and lungs.  

TalkTV presenter James Whale took to social media on Sunday to share an emotional update about his terminal cancer battle – admitting that he he ‘hasn’t got much longer’

The Big Brother star, 74, choked up as he wished his grandson a happy birthday and reflected on his own morality in the heartfelt message

James was first diagnosed with liver cancer in February of 2020 but despite having preventative treatment, he revealed that year that it had spread to his spine, brain and lungs

The visibly emotional star added: ‘Happy Birthday, mate. Happy Birthday to all of you who have put your lives where you have

‘360 years ago, the Royal Marines were founded. Happy Birthday to you all.’

Reflecting on his mortality, James said: ‘It’s alright, I’m an old git, [I’m] 74. I’m still on the TV and radio but not for much longer. I love you all, guys.’

Fans were quick to send supportive messages to James in the comments section of the video, which was posted to Twitter/X, thanking him for his work as a presenter. 

They wrote: ‘You have been the voice of many people, thank you. Your family are lucky to have such an inspirational loved one. Thinking of you and sending love.’;

‘God bless you James……I’ll still be waiting Friday night to see you on your show!’

‘James, I remember listening to you on TalkRadio as a kid in 1997 onwards (too young I know). For years I’ve listened to you and have never forgotten how you helped shape the world for me back then. 

‘A true legend, a great man. Sending you all my very best wishes my friend [sic].’

Fans were quick to send supportive messages to James in the comments section of the video, which was posted across his social media channels, thanking him for his work as a presenter

James was made an MBE in the King’s Honour’s list in 2024 for his ‘outstanding contributions to broadcasting’. 

In May, James admitted that his cancer had progressed to the point where he will be ‘exceptionally lucky’ to live to see Christmas

James was made an MBE in the King’s Honour’s list in 2024 for his ‘outstanding contributions to broadcasting’.

In May, James admitted that his cancer had progressed to the point where he will be ‘exceptionally lucky’ to live to see Christmas. 

He said: ‘Sometimes I think it will be easier just to have a heart attack and go.’ 

James said that he had sadly exhausted all possible treatments for his cancer and was ‘at the end of his journey’ with the illness and as a presenter.

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!’