NRL identity Paul Kent has candidly discussed the severe physical toll of his ongoing battle with throat cancer, revealing distressing details about weight loss, eating difficulties, and the side effects of his medical treatment. Kent, aged 56, publicly confirmed his diagnosis in January this year, and has since been undergoing intensive therapy at a specialised cancer centre in Sydney.
Physical Struggles and Treatment Challenges
Speaking openly on the Fanatics podcast, the former journalist and NRL 360 co-host described how his life has been dramatically altered by the disease and its treatment. He disclosed that he has lost a significant 12 kilograms in weight, a development that concerns medical professionals as it can potentially reduce the effectiveness of cancer therapies.
Kent explained that he hasn't been able to consume a solid meal in approximately five to six weeks due to painful ulcers in his mouth and throat, some measuring up to 5 centimetres in size. This has made eating virtually impossible, compounded by the fact that everything he attempts to eat now tastes metallic, reminiscent of steel wool.
Medication and Recovery Progress
The rugby league commentator also shared that he has recently stopped taking Endone, a prescription-only narcotic pain medication, though he continues to hope for days completely free from discomfort. His cancer was discovered in lymph nodes around his neck following his return from the Ashes cricket tour in England before Christmas last year.
Earlier this month, Kent posted an optimistic update on Instagram, sharing a smiling photograph and announcing that his treatment is nearing completion. He wrote about undergoing his final chemotherapy session and having only four radiation treatments remaining, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support he has received from followers and well-wishers.
Career Transition to Podcasting
Following his dismissal from News Corp and Fox Sports in 2024 after involvement in a street altercation in Sydney's inner-west, Kent has redirected his professional focus toward podcasting. He has launched two successful podcast series: Kenty Prime Time and Kenty Blitz, frequently featuring former rugby league player John Elias as co-host.
His podcast programmes have attracted notable guests from the rugby league world, including Australian Rugby League Commission Chairman Peter V'Landys, Rugby League Players' Association CEO Clint Newton, Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart, former Bulldogs star James Graham, and South Sydney legend Craig Coleman.
Kent told Mediaweek that numerous people encouraged him to venture into podcasting, and he ultimately decided to pursue the opportunity, appreciating the creative freedom and positive aspects of the medium. Despite his health challenges, he remains engaged with the rugby league community through this new digital platform.
