Former BBC DJ Andy Kershaw Faces Cancer Battle with Characteristic Defiance
Popular former BBC Radio 1 presenter Andy Kershaw is currently unable to walk following a cancer diagnosis that has affected his spine, according to a recent update from his close friend and podcast producer. The 66-year-old broadcaster, known for his distinctive career and colourful personal life, was diagnosed with the illness last August and has been undergoing intensive treatment.
A Message of Determination Amid Treatment
Peter Everett, Kershaw's friend and podcast producer, shared details of the presenter's condition on social media this week. He revealed that Kershaw has been receiving chemotherapy, radiotherapy, physiotherapy, and requires numerous scans alongside strong pain management medication. Despite these significant health challenges, Everett conveyed that messages of support from well-wishers have been "hugely appreciated" by the former DJ.
In a characteristically defiant statement passed on by Everett, Kershaw declared: "I am in good spirits, feeling very positive and planning another podcast. I am determined not to die before Benjamin Netanyahu, Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump and Ant'n'Dec. That should keep me going for a while." This darkly humorous remark reflects the presenter's renowned resilience and unconventional outlook.
A Storied Broadcasting Career
Andy Kershaw's career in British media spans several decades and formats. After moving to London in 1984 and initially working as a roadie for Billy Bragg, he was recruited as a presenter for BBC 2's Whistle Test, succeeding the legendary John Peel. The following year, he secured his own show on Radio 1, which he presented for an impressive 15 years before his departure.
His broadcasting work extended beyond music programming to include significant television moments, most notably co-presenting the BBC's coverage of the historic Live Aid concert in 1985. Following his Radio 1 tenure, Kershaw worked at Radio 3 while also creating travel documentaries for Channel 4, establishing himself as a versatile media personality with a particular passion for world music.
Tumultuous Personal Journey
Kershaw's life away from the microphone has been equally eventful and often challenging. His 17-year marriage ended in 2008 amid admissions of infidelity, leading to a protracted legal battle over access to his two children. This period saw him imprisoned three times for breaching court orders and eventually becoming temporarily homeless while struggling with alcohol dependency.
Reflecting on this difficult chapter, Kershaw previously told The Independent: "All I wanted to do was see my children, so why was I in jail? Why was I on the run? It was ridiculous, insane." He documented his extraordinary life journey in a 2012 autobiography titled No Off Switch, which covered his rise through media, work as a war correspondent, and personal tribulations.
Musical Philosophy and Legacy
Throughout his career, Kershaw developed a reputation for championing diverse musical traditions beyond mainstream British offerings. He once explained his approach: "I think initially Radio 1 wanted another John Peel, but I got quickly bored of those awful, insipid demo tapes I was receiving from Liverpudlian indie acts, especially as I was beginning to discover properly fantastic, amazing music from Malawi, the Congo, South Africa."
This commitment to showcasing global sounds defined his broadcasting philosophy, with Kershaw believing such music had wider appeal beyond specialist circles - a conviction supported by enthusiastic listener feedback throughout his career.
Despite the current hiatus in his podcast work due to health treatment, Everett confirmed that both he and Kershaw remain grateful to their patrons and supporters who have continued their backing during this challenging period. The former presenter's characteristic blend of humour, defiance, and resilience continues to define his approach to his cancer battle.
