The veteran broadcaster shares uncertainty about his future as he continues to fight stage four kidney cancer, but remains positive about his life’s achievements.
James Whale, the veteran broadcaster, has expressed uncertainty about how much longer he has to live as he continues his battle with stage four kidney cancer. Speaking after being honoured with an MBE for his services to broadcasting and charity, the 72-year-old admitted he might not make it through the end of the year, despite having already defied doctors’ expectations for several years.
Whale, who was first diagnosed with cancer back in 2000 and underwent the removal of one of his kidneys, revealed in 2020 that the illness had returned and spread to his spine, brain, and lungs. Reflecting on his journey during the ceremony at Windsor Castle, Whale said: “I didn’t think I’d be here to receive this. But who knows? I’ve been terminally ill for nearly four years now. I might make the end of this year, or I might not. I could still be around next year.”
Despite the gravity of his condition, Whale remains optimistic. He continued, “One in two people will eventually face this journey until a cure is found. I believe a cure will come, but in the meantime, you have to make the most of it. When you reach my age, and you’ve lived a good life, you start to think that maybe you only have another year left. Four years ago, we thought I had just months.”
Having spent five decades in broadcasting, Whale is best known for his no-holds-barred approach, which earned him loyal followers and widespread recognition. His MBE is the culmination of his career, something that Whale described as a significant achievement. “It’s a great honour at the end of your life,” he said.
Starting his career at 22 with a radio show in the north-east of England, Whale never imagined that he would make a career out of entertaining people. “I thought I’d have to look for a proper job eventually,” he admitted. “But so far, I haven’t had to, and it’s been a good life.”
Whale also expressed how much the recognition meant to him, particularly for the people who supported him throughout his career. “I never thought I’d get letters after my name. All the people who stuck with me over the years, this is for them too.”
