Davina McCall, the beloved TV presenter known for her role on Big Brother, has shared heartwarming news with her fans: she has been given the all-clear following surgery to remove a benign brain tumor. In a heartfelt video posted on Instagram, the 57-year-old star expressed her gratitude and relief after undergoing a successful operation in November 2024 to remove a colloid cyst, which was discovered during a routine health check related to her menopause awareness advocacy.
In the video, McCall is seen sitting in a sunlit garden alongside her partner, Michael Douglas, as they celebrate her recovery. "So here it is. Our final brain surgery update. Had the final MRI this week. @brain.surgeon.uk got everything out during surgery, it’s not coming back," she joyfully announced, showcasing before-and-after images from her MRI scans that confirm the tumor has completely vanished.
Reflecting on her journey, McCall revealed that she had been quite nervous about the MRI results, fearing that any remaining tumor could lead to a recurrence. "I was a bit nervous about it because I knew if any of it was left, then it would grow back, and I’d just go through the whole thing again – which I was prepared to do," she said. Thankfully, the results were clear, allowing her to finally draw a line under this chapter of her life.
Throughout her ordeal, McCall has been open about the emotional and physical challenges she faced. She described the experience as "quite possibly the hardest thing I’ve ever been through," and has been candid about the impact it had on her life and priorities. During a recent appearance on Comic Relief, she shared tears as she recounted the support she received from her family and Douglas, who helped her navigate this difficult time.
McCall’s journey to recovery began after she received a complimentary health scan following a talk on menopause, where doctors discovered her colloid cyst. These benign tumors, while non-cancerous, can pose serious health risks, including the potential for sudden death if left untreated. McCall’s decision to undergo surgery came after much deliberation, and she expressed relief that she was able to confront the issue head-on.
In her Instagram post, she expressed profound gratitude for those who supported her through her recovery. "I want to say a massive thank you to everybody that looked after me so well. A special heartfelt thank you from both of us to Kevin for being such an absolute legend," she said, referring to her neurosurgeon, Kevin O'Neill. McCall emphasized the importance of recognizing that benign tumors can still be life-threatening, stating, "Benign does not mean fine." This statement reflects her desire to raise awareness about the seriousness of such conditions.
As she continues to heal, McCall has also been reflecting on her life and the lessons learned during this challenging period. "I am so so grateful particularly because I know a lot of people have inoperable tumors and I know I’m lucky to be able to draw a line under this and move on with my life when so many people can’t," she remarked. She has come to appreciate her family more deeply, stating that the experience has helped her realize that her children would be okay without her, which filled her with pride.
Her three children, Holly, Tilly, and Chester, from her previous marriage to Matthew Robertson, have been a source of strength during her recovery. McCall noted that her perspective on life has shifted significantly, and she believes that in the future, she will look back on this experience as a blessing. "I’m pretty sure in two years' time, I will see it as one of the greatest blessings of my life," she remarked, showcasing her resilient spirit.
In addition to her personal journey, McCall has remained active in her professional life. Last month, she was announced as the host of a new reality show titled Stranded on Honeymoon Island, set to air on BBC One and iPlayer later this year. Her ability to balance her health struggles with her career aspirations is a testament to her determination and strength.
As fans continue to rally around her, McCall’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of health awareness and the strength of community support. Her candidness about her experience has not only inspired many but has also shed light on the realities of dealing with brain tumors.
In sharing her experience, Davina McCall has not only updated her fans on her health but has also sparked important conversations about women’s health issues, particularly in relation to menopause and the need for regular health check-ups. Her journey underscores the significance of being proactive about one’s health and the impact that timely medical intervention can have.
As she moves forward, McCall embodies resilience, gratitude, and a renewed appreciation for life. Her story is one of hope, illustrating that even in the face of adversity, there is a path to recovery and a future filled with possibilities.
