Trisha Goddard, the renowned television presenter, has made history as the first contestant on Celebrity Big Brother to undergo cancer treatment while in the house. At 67 years old, she has entered the reality show alongside a star-studded cast that includes Hollywood veteran Mickey Rourke, 72, and EastEnders' Patsy Palmer, 52. Goddard's journey with cancer is not new; she was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008 but was later declared cancer-free. Unfortunately, in 2022, her cancer returned as stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, a condition that is treatable but not curable.
Goddard's decision to join Celebrity Big Brother stems from her desire to inspire others living with cancer. "I want to show people how you can live successfully with cancer and not be so scared of dying that you become scared of living," she stated. This sentiment resonates deeply with her, especially after being approached to participate in the show every year since its inception. "When I told my daughter, she made a really good point. I’ve got my Instagram, and I’ve really been banging on about the language used when it comes to cancer and about services that are needed so people can live their best lives," she explained.
As she entered the house on April 7, 2025, Goddard emphasized that she does not want pity from her fellow housemates. She humorously noted that she has even placed a bet with her husband on how quickly someone will share a sad story about a loved one with cancer. "There are general things you just don’t want to hear," she remarked, anticipating the common reactions she may encounter.
Goddard's medical team has worked closely with the Celebrity Big Brother production to ensure her treatment schedule is accommodated. "My oncologist is my biggest cheerleader and is working with the Big Brother team," she mentioned. "I’ve got a special therapist who’s happy to work with the medic on the show. My palliative care team is also working with the team here too." She had one infusion on April 7, and plans to fly back immediately after the show to continue her treatment.
Throughout her career, Goddard has been a trailblazer in television, having hosted her own talk show, Trisha, from 1998 to 2004, and later, The Trisha Goddard Show on Channel 5 until 2010. In 2024, she made headlines as the first Black woman to lead Good Morning Britain coverage in its decade-long history. Her advocacy for mental health and patient-led treatments is evident in her approach to her own care.
Despite her serious health condition, Goddard remains optimistic. "I must keep enjoying what I have always enjoyed," she stated, expressing her determination to live fully despite the challenges she faces. She recognizes the importance of maintaining a sense of purpose and accomplishment, particularly for those living with chronic illnesses.
As she embarks on this new chapter in the Celebrity Big Brother house, Goddard hopes to use her platform to shed light on the realities of living with cancer. She is not just a contestant but a voice for many who feel marginalized by their illnesses. "I can categorically tell you there are lots of people in lots of industries who are living with cancer who've never said a word for that reason," she said, highlighting the stigma surrounding the illness.
Celebrity Big Brother, hosted by AJ Odudu and Will Best, airs on ITV, and fans are eager to see how Goddard's journey unfolds in the coming weeks. With a mix of humor and candor, she aims to challenge perceptions about cancer and encourage others to embrace life, regardless of their circumstances.
Goddard's participation in the show is significant not only for her personal journey but also for the visibility it brings to the experiences of those battling cancer. As she interacts with fellow housemates, she hopes to foster understanding and support, particularly for those who may not have the same platform to share their stories.
In addition to her battle with cancer, Goddard's life has been marked by resilience and reinvention. After relocating to the United States in 2010, she continued to work in television, contributing to various shows and projects. Her marriage to Allen in 2022 marked a new beginning in her personal life, adding to her narrative of perseverance.
As viewers tune in to watch Celebrity Big Brother, they will witness not just a reality show but a powerful testament to living boldly in the face of adversity. Goddard's presence in the house serves as a reminder that life can still be vibrant and fulfilling, even when facing the toughest of challenges. Her message is clear: do not let fear dictate how you live your life.
With her unique perspective, Goddard is set to make an impact on the show and beyond. Whether she emerges as a winner or not, her real victory lies in her ability to inspire others and change the conversation around cancer. As she embarks on this journey, she hopes to leave a lasting legacy of empowerment and hope for those navigating similar paths.
Celebrity Big Brother continues to capture the imagination of audiences, and with Goddard in the mix, this season promises to be one of the most memorable yet. Tune in to witness her journey and the stories that unfold in the house.
