Chart-topping singer Jessie J has delivered a powerful message of resilience, urging fans not to be defined by their darkest moments, as she reflected on a year dominated by her breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.
A Powerful Message on National Television
The 37-year-old artist, whose real name is Jessica Cornish, arguably stole the show during BBC Two's Jools' Annual Hootenanny with a stunning rendition of Frank Sinatra's My Way. In a candid interview with host Jools Holland broadcast as the new year arrived, she linked the song's sentiment to her personal journey through a challenging 2025.
"I think this has been tough for a lot of people," she said, referencing the Chinese zodiac's Year of the Snake. "We've done a lot of shedding and letting go." She expressed hope that 2026 would be a year for "coming together and more empathy."
Facing Cancer with Humour and Hope
Jessie J then turned to her own health, stating plainly: "For context, I did have breast cancer." She addressed her diagnosis with characteristic frankness and humour, noting the physical changes after surgery. "I've got new boobs, big. We're looking at the positive silver lining. My nipples are looking in different directions, but we look at the positives!"
She emphasised the importance of open dialogue, saying she knows she talks about it a lot but believes it's crucial. Her core advice was clear: "Don't define your life on your worst days." The singer explained that her blessings outweighed the challenges, and that she felt she had learned the most about herself during this difficult period.
Advocacy and Impact
The mother-of-one was first diagnosed with early breast cancer in June 2025 and underwent surgery soon after. She has since become a vocal advocate for breast awareness. In an interview with Women's Health in December, she revealed the tangible impact of her openness.
"I hear all the time from people who say that a friend checked her breasts after seeing me talking about it," she shared. "They found a lump, and it's cancer, but they've caught it early. I've got goosebumps. So, yeah, I'll keep talking about how important it is."
Her treatment required a second surgery later in the year, forcing the postponement of her planned tour. UK and European dates have been rescheduled for April 2026, while the US leg was cancelled.
Despite this, Jessie J returned to the stage in September 2025 at BBC Radio 2 in the Park in Chelmsford. In a poignant moment in November, she was photographed sharing a hug with the Princess of Wales at the Royal Variety Performance, an encounter she described as "mum to mum" but which also highlighted their shared experience of undergoing cancer treatment in the public eye.
As she steps into 2026, Jessie J's focus remains on gratitude, recovery, and using her platform to encourage early detection and resilience in others.
