Beloved broadcaster Paul Gambaccini has shared deeply emotional news with fans, revealing that he has been living with Alzheimer’s disease since receiving the diagnosis in early 2025.

The 77-year-old radio icon, whose unmistakable voice has accompanied generations of listeners across the UK, confirmed the diagnosis in a heartfelt statement while making it clear that he has no intention of stepping away from broadcasting just yet.

Quoting the late Freddie Mercury, Gambaccini reflected on the reality of his condition.

“You can’t turn back the clock, you can’t turn back the tide.”

He acknowledged that Alzheimer’s is a serious illness and that the future remains uncertain. Even so, he said life is continuing much as it always has, and he plans to keep presenting The Paul Gambaccini Collection on BBC Radio 2 every Sunday evening, along with his programmes on Greatest Hits Radio.

Rather than focusing on fear, the veteran presenter chose to express gratitude.

He thanked listeners, friends and colleagues for the kindness and encouragement they have already shown, adding that he hopes to remain as open as possible as his journey continues.

Most importantly, he asked for understanding and privacy so he can continue doing what has defined his life for decades—sharing the music he loves with the audience he treasures.

Since his diagnosis, Gambaccini and his husband, Christopher Sherwood, have been receiving support from the Alzheimer’s Society. The charity praised his decision to speak publicly, saying that his openness could encourage others to seek help if they notice early symptoms in themselves or loved ones.

For more than half a century, Gambaccini has been one of Britain’s most respected voices in radio. Affectionately known as “The Great Gambo” and “The Professor of Pop,” he has presented programmes across BBC Radio 1, Radio 2, Radio 3 and Radio 4, while also becoming a familiar voice on Greatest Hits Radio and Classic FM. His remarkable contribution to broadcasting was recognised with induction into the Radio Academy Hall of Fame in 2005.

Although Alzheimer’s remains a progressive condition with no cure, treatments and early support can help many people maintain their independence and continue doing the things they love for longer.

Paul Gambaccini’s announcement is undoubtedly heartbreaking, but it is also a powerful reminder that a diagnosis does not erase a person’s passion, purpose or dignity.

As he continues to sit behind the microphone each week, listeners will no doubt cherish every programme, grateful that one of radio’s most treasured voices is still sharing the music—and the warmth—that have inspired so many for decades.