Paul Gambaccini reveals dementia diagnosis

BBC Radio 2 presenter Paul Gambaccini has revealed he is living with Alzheimer’s disease but plans to continue broadcasting.

The broadcaster said he was diagnosed in early 2025 and has decided to share the news publicly while continuing with his programmes on BBC Radio 2 and Greatest Hits Radio.

In a statement, Paul referenced Queen’s song These Are The Days Of Our Lives, saying: “As Freddie Mercury once sang, you can’t turn back the clock, you can’t turn back the tide.”

He added: “I’m grateful for the kindness and support I’ve already received. I will be as open as I can as things progress.”

Paul also asked for privacy as he continues his work on air, saying he wished to be given “the space to keep on broadcasting the music I love to the listeners I love even more”.

The BBC Radio 2 presenter currently hosts The Paul Gambaccini Collection on Sunday evenings from 8pm to 10pm. He will also continue presenting his programmes on Greatest Hits Radio.

A statement issued alongside the announcement said support had been provided to Paul and his husband, Christopher Sherwood, since the diagnosis. It added that there was pleasure that he would continue broadcasting to his audiences on both networks.

Both BBC Radio 2 and Greatest Hits Radio have posted social media messages wishing Paul love and best wishes.