Rhod Gilbert announces he is being treated for cancer

Rhod Gilbert, the comedian and television presenter, has announced he is being treated for cancer.

The 53-year-old from Carmarthen said he was a patient at Velindre Cancer Centre in Cardiff, a hospital he has been patron of for a decade and for which he has fundraised.

He shared a message on his Facebook page thanking staff at the centre and said that before his diagnosis he never imagined he would become a patient there.

Gilbert, who has presented programmes including Apprentice: You’re Fired and the final series of Never Mind the Buzzcocks in 2015, did not disclose the type of cancer for which he was being treated.

He said: “As a proud patron of Velindre Cancer Centre, I’ve trekked the world, hosted chaotic quizzes and star-studded comedy nights. I’ve met and made friends with so many inspirational staff, patients and their families. It has been a huge part of my life for the last 10 years.

“So while I never imagined that I would be a patient here, I know better than anyone that I am in the best possible hands. The NHS care I’m receiving is incredible.

“I wouldn’t wish this on anyone … but who knows, maybe I’ll come out the other end with a new stand-up show and a 40-minute rant about orange squash.”

The Welsh broadcaster has been a regular guest on panel shows such as Would I Lie to You?, QI and Mock the Week as well as presenting his own BBC Radio Wales show.

Gilbert, who married writer and comedian Sian Harries in 2013, also thanked his close friends and family for their support.

He said: “I’ll be disappearing for a while and won’t be commenting further, at least not for now, whilst I focus on my recovery.”

Gilbert added he was working to reschedule his comedy tour Book of John for early 2023.

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The comedian, who had done about 200 shows, said: “I am genuinely gutted that we didn’t get to do the last seven shows as planned, but, rest assured, we will do everything we can to finish what we started.”

Velindre Cancer Centre said in a statement on its Facebook page: “For over 10 years, patron Rhod Gilbert has provided exceptional support for Velindre Cancer Charity and has always been an advocate for the passionate efforts of our Velindre Cancer Centre staff, donors and fundraisers.

“Rhod has become a special member of our Velindre family and we are sure you will join us in sending him your very best wishes during this time.”