Paul Gambaccini’s heartbreaking Alzheimer’s diagnosis is now public after the veteran broadcaster revealed his news and said he plans to keep working for as long as he can.
The BBC Radio 2 and Greatest Hits Radio presenter is 77. Paul announced the heartbreaking news on his Instagram. He said doctors actually diagnosed him in early 2025.
For now, he plans to continue his regular radio work. That includes The Paul Gambaccini Collection on BBC Radio 2 on Sundays from 8pm to 10pm. He also plans to keep hosting his shows on Greatest Hits Radio.
Paul Gambaccini reveals Alzheimer’s diagnosis
The star addressed the Alzheimer’s diagnosis directly. He also asked for space to keep doing the job he loves.
He said: “As Freddie Mercury once sang, you can’t turn back the clock, you can’t turn back the tide. Ain’t that a shame.
“In early 2025 I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
“There’s no denying it’s a serious condition with an uncertain future, but for now life goes on as normal and I continue to broadcast The Paul Gambaccini Collection on BBC Radio 2 from 8-10pm on Sundays and my shows on Greatest Hits Radio.
“I’m grateful for the kindness and support I’ve already received. I will be as open as I can as things progress.
“For now, I wish to be given the space to keep on broadcasting the music I love to the listeners I love even more. These are the days of our lives.”
The update also included support at home. Daily Mail said Paul and his husband, Christopher Sherwood, have received support from Alzheimer’s Society.
What supporters hope this diagnosis will do next
Alzheimer’s Society chief executive Michelle Dyson CB praised Paul’s decision to speak publicly. She said his story could encourage others to seek advice and support sooner.
She said: “Paul’s experience shows that there can be life after a dementia diagnosis – his fans will be delighted at his decision to carry on hosting his shows.
“Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be frightening but it can also open the door to receiving treatment and support.
“We hope that by sharing his diagnosis, Paul will encourage others to spot the symptoms and reach out if they are worried about themselves or a loved one.
- Paul Gambaccini is an American-British broadcaster and music presenter.
- He began his broadcasting career in 1973.
- He joined BBC Radio 1 in his mid-20s.
- He later became a long-running presence on British radio and music television.
- He currently presents The Paul Gambaccini Collection on BBC Radio 2 on Sundays from 8pm to 10pm.
- He also presents shows on Greatest Hits Radio.
“The earlier someone is diagnosed, the better the chances are that they can continue doing the things they love and live independently for longer, and plan for the future.”
Paul Gambaccini has remained a familiar voice on British radio for decades. The American-British broadcaster did his first stint on Radio 1 at 24 years old.