Rhod Gilbert stricken with cancer

Rhod Gilbert is suffering cancer.

The comic said he is intending to “disappear for a while” after his diagnosis, which he added he “wouldn’t wish on anyone” – but joked he hoped to survive and create a stand-up routine about his illness.

‘Never Mind the Buzzcocks’ host Rhod, 53, did not disclose what form of cancer he is suffering when he announced the news on his Facebook page on Thursday evening (14.07.22), alongside a picture of him in a hospital bed wearing a blue facemask.

He said about getting treatment at a cancer centre, of which he is a patron, in his homeland of Wales: “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.”

He also shared a picture of himself hill walking, adding: “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 ten years.

“Thank you everyone for your support over the last few weeks and months (and years). I’ll be disappearing for a while and won’t be commenting further, at least not for now, whilst I focus on my recovery.”

Rhod’s collection of images with his message also showed him taking part in fundraising activities.

The TV comedy veteran, who married long-term girlfriend Sian Harries, 40, in 2013, is a panel show regular who has appeared on ‘Mock The Week’, ‘8 Out of 10 Cats’ and ‘Have I Got News For You’, as well as being named permanent host of ‘Never Mind The Buzzcocks’ for its final series in 2011.

He revealed he has attention deficit disorder on an episode of ‘Taskmaster’ and has featured in a documentary about male infertility.