Former Sky News host confirms heartbreaking stage 4 cancer diagnosis
In a devastating social media post, Dermot Murnaghan has shared his life-altering cancer diagnosis, while urging others to seek help
Dermot Murnaghan has been diagnosed with Stage 4 prostate cancer
Former Sky News anchor Dermot Murnaghan has been diagnosed with cancer. The broadcaster announced that he is responding well to treatment and expressed gratitude for his "outstanding medical team" who have supported him during this difficult time. Dermot, 67, joined Sky in 2007 and hosted various news programmes, including the announcement of Queen Elizabeth's death on September 8, where he was the first to report the heartbreaking news.
In a statement posted on social media, he confirmed his diagnosis, stating: "Some personal news……I've been diagnosed with Stage IV advanced prostate cancer. I'm fortunate to have a simply outstanding medical team looking after me, who I can't thank enough - they are administering the best possible care with expertise, compassion, and sensitivity. I'm responding positively to their excellent treatment and feeling well. I'm blessed to be fortified by the monumental love and support of my wife, family and close friends.
He continued: "Needless to say, my message to all men over 50, in high-risk groups, or displaying symptoms, is get yourself tested and campaign for routine prostate screening by the NHS.
Dermot added: "I’m aiming to take part in Sir Chris Hoy’s fund raising charity bike ride - http://tourde4.com - in Glasgow in September - please support it and join us if you can Take care everyone Dermot."
In response to the posts, his followers shared their best wishes, as one wrote: "I'm so sorry to hear this. Sending you love and all the best for your healing journey. I've always loved your work. Thank you for raising awareness and thinking of others at this difficult personal time."
A second replied: "All I can do is cross everything and wish you all the very best, Dermot. You sound like you’re facing this with positivity / not taking this lying down. Here’s hoping your team can crack this for you. Take great care."
Dermot, a media personality from Devon, began his journalism career as a trainee reporter for local newspapers. He later joined Channel 4, where he served as a researcher and reporter for The Business Programme. After a brief period in Switzerland, he returned to the UK in 1989, taking on business segments for Channel 4 Daily before becoming the main presenter.
In addition to his role at Channel 4, Dermot also served as a relief presenter for C4 News during Jon Snow's absences. He went on to host ITV's Lunchtime News and News at Ten, where he notably broke the news of Princess Diana's death in 1997. From 2002 to 2007, he was a prominent anchor for BBC Breakfast and frequently stood in for the BBC Six O’Clock News and BBC Ten O’Clock News.
After his tenure at the BBC, Dermot joined Sky News, where he remained for 16 years. His tenure included key events such as the overnight coverage of the 2019 election and the announcement of Queen Elizabeth II's death in 2022, making Sky the first television news organization to report the news.
Dermot has been married to Maria Keegan since August 1989, and together they have four children. The couple resides in North London.
