BBC issue major update over Lauren Laverne's health amid cancer battle

A major update has been issued over Lauren Laverne's health as the BBC radio DJ fights cancer. Lauren is set to resume her duties on The One Show and record new episodes of the beloved BBC Radio 4 programme Desert Island Discs this November.

It follows a three-month hiatus due to health issues. A spokesperson for the BBC said: "We're delighted to welcome Lauren back to the studio this month for The One Show and Desert Island Discs, with new episodes airing on Radio 4 from December 1, and we look forward to welcoming Lauren back to BBC Radio 6 Music in the new year.

Laverne's voice was last heard on her 6 Music show on August 15, with close pal Nick Grimshaw, Nemone Metaxas, and Deb Grant filling in for her during her absence. Her last appearance on The One Show was also in August.

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The 46-year-old broadcaster said the disease had been diagnosed early and she was expected to fully recover. She posted: “Right then, some personal news … I recently had a cancer diagnosis. It was (thank God) caught early and unexpectedly during a screening test and I am expected to make a full recovery.”

In a caption to a photograph of her sitting in a hospital bed Laverne told her 250,000 followers: “I’m in hospital at the moment.” She thanked doctors and nurses at the unnamed hospital who she said “have got me this far with incredible skill and kindness”.

Laverne said her family and friends had been “absolutely extraordinary every step of the way”. She also thanked BBC 6 Music, where she presents a breakfast show, and colleagues at Desert Island Discs “for giving me the time off that I need to get better”.

She said: “I also want to say that if you’re avoiding a test or putting off an appointment to get yourself checked out please, please do it today. Half of us will get cancer at some point, and if you do, finding out asap is everything.”

Laverne ended her post saying: “It’s usually my job to bring the good vibes on air but any you have to spare are very much welcome here. Sending loads of love to anyone in a similar boat, or who has made it back to shore. Xxx.”