DJ and broadcaster Paul Gambaccini reveals Alzheimer’s diagnosis

Veteran broadcaster Paul Gambaccini has publicly shared his diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, a condition he received in 2025. The 77-year-old presenter, known for his extensive career on BBC and Greatest Hits Radio since the 1970s, revealed the news in a statement, acknowledging the seriousness of the condition.

Gambaccini, who has one of the most recognizable voices on British radio, expressed his determination to continue his work. Quoting Freddie Mercury, 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. 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."

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As Freddie Mercury once sang, you can’t turn back the clock, you can’t turn back the tide. Ain’t that a shame. 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.

He conveyed gratitude for the support he has received since his diagnosis and stated his desire to maintain his broadcasting career. "I wanted 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," he added. Gambaccini continues to host shows, including the Paul Gambaccini Collection on BBC Radio 2 and programs on Greatest Hits Radio.

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I wanted 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.

Michelle Dyson, CEO of the Alzheimer's Society, commented on Gambaccini's decision to share his diagnosis. "Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be frightening, but it can also open the door to receiving treatment and support," Dyson said. "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."

The article also briefly touches upon Gambaccini's past legal dispute with the Crown Prosecution Service over unfounded historical sexual abuse allegations, for which he received a payout in 2018. He had previously criticized the BBC's handling of the situation during the aftermath of the Jimmy Savile scandal.

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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.