Veteran broadcaster Dermot Murnaghan has revealed he has been diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer, sharing the news publicly on June 23, 2025. The 67-year-old former Sky News presenter took to social media to announce his diagnosis, expressing gratitude for his medical team and the support of his loved ones while urging men over 50 and those at high risk to get tested.
In a heartfelt message posted on X, formerly Twitter, Murnaghan wrote, "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." He added that he is "responding positively to their excellent treatment, and feeling well," and credited the "monumental love and support" of his wife, family, and close friends for fortifying him during this challenging time.
Stage four prostate cancer indicates that the disease has spread beyond the prostate gland to other parts of the body. According to Cancer Research UK, this can include nearby organs such as the bladder or regional lymph nodes, as well as more distant sites like bones, lungs, or the liver. This advanced stage often presents without obvious symptoms initially, making early detection crucial.
Highlighting the importance of awareness, Murnaghan urged, "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." He emphasized that early detection can be lifesaving, noting that the disease may sometimes progress rapidly without clear symptoms.
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men in the UK, with about one in eight men expected to receive a diagnosis in their lifetime, according to the charity Prostate Cancer UK. The NHS advises that men over 50 are at the highest risk, and symptoms can include increased frequency of urination, difficulty starting or maintaining urination, weak flow, a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying, and blood in urine or semen. However, these symptoms can also arise from benign prostate enlargement, a non-cancerous condition common in older men.
Murnaghan’s announcement comes as he prepares to participate in a charity bike ride organized by Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy, who himself revealed a terminal diagnosis of stage four prostate cancer in October 2024. The Tour de 4 ride, set for September 7, 2025, at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome in Glasgow, aims to raise awareness and funds for cancer charities while challenging perceptions about living with advanced cancer.
Born in Devon, Dermot Murnaghan began his journalism career as a trainee reporter on local newspapers before joining Channel 4 as a researcher and reporter for The Business Programme. After a stint in Switzerland, he returned to the UK in 1989 to present business segments on The Channel 4 Daily and eventually became its main presenter. He also served as a relief presenter for Channel 4 News, filling in for Jon Snow during his absences.
In the 1990s, Murnaghan became a familiar face on ITV, presenting the Lunchtime News and News at Ten. Notably, he was the broadcaster who broke the tragic news of Princess Diana’s death in 1997. From 2002 to 2007, he was a main presenter on BBC Breakfast and regularly stood in for the BBC Six O’Clock and Ten O’Clock News bulletins. During this period, he also hosted the BBC quiz show Eggheads from 2003 until 2014.
In 2007, Murnaghan joined Sky News, where he remained a lead anchor for 16 years until his departure in 2023. His tenure included coverage of major events such as the 2019 UK general election, the funeral of Prince Philip in 2021, the 2020 US presidential election, and the announcement of Queen Elizabeth II’s death in September 2022. He was the first to report the Queen’s passing on live television, a moment etched in British broadcasting history.
His colleagues and fans have expressed an outpouring of support following his announcement. Scriptwriter Kathleen Beedles 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." Another follower commented on his positivity, saying, "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."
Murnaghan has been married to journalist and producer Maria Keegan since August 1989, and the couple have four children. They reside in North London.
The broadcaster’s message to men is clear: prostate cancer can be silent in its early stages, but early detection through routine screening can make a significant difference. The NHS currently recommends that men over 50 discuss the risks and benefits of screening with their doctors, especially those in high-risk groups such as men with a family history of prostate cancer or of Black African or Caribbean descent.
Sir Chris Hoy, who also battles stage four prostate cancer, is using his platform to promote awareness and encourage men to get screened earlier. The Tour de 4 charity ride symbolizes hope and resilience, aiming to change perceptions around advanced cancer and support those living with it.
For those affected by cancer, organizations like Macmillan provide support and information. Their helpline is available seven days a week, offering advice and a listening ear for patients and families navigating the difficult journey ahead.
Dermot Murnaghan’s openness about his diagnosis not only sheds light on the realities of living with advanced prostate cancer but also serves as a rallying call for greater awareness, early detection, and support for men across the UK. As he faces this personal challenge with determination and the backing of his medical team and loved ones, his story underscores the vital importance of health vigilance and community solidarity.
