Comedy star Milton Jones has given fans an update after a prostate cancer diagnosis forced him to cancel all his shows.
The performer, famous for his stand-up and appearances on Mock the Week, revealed publicly in April that he needed to undergo surgery.
In a statement at the time, the 61-year-old said his cancer was ‘treatable’, but he needed time off for both the operation and recovery.
He expressed his sadness at having to axe much of his nationwide tour, hilariously named HA!milton, and said he was ‘so sorry’ to those who bought tickets.
But in his latest message, Milton had some good news for his followers.
Taking to Instagram today, the deadpan comic, beloved for his one-liners and puns, revealed that he is now cancer-free.
‘A few months ago, I had to stop my tour because I needed treatment for prostate cancer. I’m glad to say I’ve had that treatment and am now cancer free!’, his statement began.
‘So many thanks to all the doctors and nurses who helped me get better – I couldn’t do their job. I tried, but apparently you have to be qualified,’ he joked.
‘A big thank you to my family, friends, all those who helped reschedule things and the many others who have been so nice to me. Along with all those who have kept hold of their tickets for the shows that have been rescheduled and apologies to those whose shows we were unable to move.’
He added in typical comedic style: ‘I have to admit there were a few dark moments when I wondered if anyone would ever see me again, but then I realised I was leaning against the light switch.’
Milton concluded by assuring fans he’s now ‘thankfully’ in ‘a completely different place’, directing them towards his website for new shows.
‘I’ll be in lots of other different places on tour too. I hope to see you there.’
In the comments, fans and fellow comedians rallied around Milton, with Al Murray writing: ‘Fantastic news’.
Miranda actress Sally Phillips added: ‘🙌great news, Milt. So happy’.
Jon Richardson also commented a red heart, while BBC Radio 5 Live’s Matt Chorley penned: ‘Great news!’
In his original statement confirming his cancer, Milton admitted it was a ‘difficult decision’ to make changes to his touring schedule.
Affected shows were in Leeds, Coventry, Basingstoke, Sterts, Launceston, Durham, Hexham, Ilkley, Wakefield, Lichfield, Tunbridge Wells, Portsmouth, and Lyme Regis, which were all due to take place over the summer.
‘In addition, the Summer dates in Colchester, Bridlington, Stroud, and London will be rescheduled to the autumn,’ he explained.
Milton added that all dates for his autumn tour leg would remain intact.
‘Thanks for your support and respecting my privacy during this time. This decision has not been taken lightly. Trust me,’ he assured his followers, vowing to reserve ‘abnormal service’ soon.
In light of his diagnosis, Milton was showered with love from other showbiz stars, including Olympic cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, 49, who was told his own prostate cancer was terminal last October, having been given two to four years to live.
Symptoms of prostate cancer
As explained by the NHS, prostate cancer typically has no symptoms at first. Should the cancer grow or spread, it can lead to changes in the way you pee, such as:
- finding it difficult to start peeing or straining to pee
- having a weak flow of urine
- ‘stop start’ peeing
- needing to pee urgently or often, or both
- feeling like you still need to pee when you’ve just finished
- peeing during the night
Other symptoms can include erectile dysfunction, blood in your urine, blood in your semen, lower back pain, and losing weight without trying to.
You should see your GP if:
- you’re over 50 years old, come from a Black ethnic background, or have a history of prostate cancer in your family
- you’re having trouble peeing or experiencing other symptoms
London-born comedian Milton first gained an audience with his various BBC Radio 4 shows, and after winning the prestigious Perrier Award from the Edinburgh Fringe festival in 1996.
He later joined Mock the Week on BBC Two, which was hosted by Dara Ó Briain and featured huge names in comedy, such as Hugh Dennis, Frankie Boyle, Andy Parsons, and Russell Howard, before its cancellation in 2022.
Milton has continued touring around the UK, has performed on Live at the Apollo twice, and was a writer on TV shows The One Ronnie, Not Going Out, and Laughing Cow.
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