BBC presenter undergoes surgery after devastating news amid second cancer diagnosis

BBC host Nick Owen has returned home after undergoing surgery after being diagnosed with kidney cancer. The 78 year old, who presents BBC Midlands Today, was hospitalised before Christmas to undergo treatment. The news of his second cancer diagnosis comes a little under two years after he made a full recovery from prostate cancer. He returned to TV screens later in 2023.

Nick has since admitted it had been a "tough" ordeal for the broadcaster and his wife following his most recent health announcement. The presenter also shared he was thankful he made it through the operation in a candid admission.

He explained: "I am so relieved to have come through the operation after a traumatic time, especially after what my wife Vicki and our family went through when I had prostate cancer.

It's been tough, but things are picking up now."

Speaking about his recent treatment, Nick told the BBC: "The NHS has been absolutely brilliant – from my GP, who was so thorough in getting me a diagnosis, to all the medics at Russells Hall Hospital.

"I am forever grateful."

Nick had been open about his prostate cancer treatment and encouraged men to get tested.

The BBC broadcaster has been on screens for the past 50 years making his first appearance the very first Good Morning Britain in 1983, before forming one of the nation's favourite on-screen partnerships with Anne Diamond on ITV and then for Good Morning with Anne and Nick on BBC One.

The presenter has also anchored the World Cup and the Olympics for several years.

In 2024, he was awarded an MBE for his services to broadcasting.

Kay Wright, head of the BBC in the Midlands, said: "We are so proud of Nick. He is an outstanding broadcaster with a heart of gold.

"His BBC colleagues and his devoted Midlands Today viewers have missed him dearly over recent weeks and we are wishing him all the best in his recovery.

"The red sofa will be here waiting for him when he's ready."