Louis Walsh, the former judge of X Factor and now 71 years old, has revealed a deeply personal struggle with cancer that occurred during the peak of the pandemic.
In an intimate conversation with his Celebrity Big Brother housemates, Ekipn-Su Cülcüloğlu and Levi Roots, Walsh shared the details of his ordeal.
As they reflected on the unique challenges of lockdown in 2020, Levi Roots candidly expressed his enjoyment of having his family around during the uncertain times. This prompted Ekin-Su to inquire about Louis’s own experience during the period.
If you’re watching #CBBUK tonight, you may have seen Louis talk about his diagnosis of blood cancer.
— Blood Cancer UK (@bloodcancer_uk) March 15, 2024
We’re glad to hear Louis is doing well, and thank him for opening up about his diagnosis.
If you’re affected by blood cancer and need support, you can call us on 0808 2080 888 https://t.co/Ih0tPXar9Z
Louis didn’t hold back as he confessed, “I was sick. Nobody knew I was sick.” In a surprising revelation, he disclosed that his ailment was not Covid-19 but rather a battle with cancer. Louis admitted that he wasn’t even aware of his condition until he sought medical attention, leading to the shocking diagnosis.
No snarky comments from me about Louis Walsh, here. Blood Cancer has taken my Grandad, Uncle, and a few cousins.
— ANDY GIBSON (@AndyGibsonTV) March 15, 2024
Get yourselves checked out, folks. Very important to catch it early. #BBUK #CBB #CBBUK #BigBrother #CelebrityBigBrother pic.twitter.com/oUfxwY414F
Louis didn’t shy away from the truth when asked about the impact on his mental well-being. He acknowledged, “It did affect me mentally.” Louis pointed to the profound psychological toll, revealing that even passing by the hospital stirred up feelings of unease within him.
Despite the mental anguish, Louis assured his companions that he had triumphed over the illness. “It’s all gone, I’m fine,” he affirmed. Reflecting on the jarring reality of his diagnosis, he admitted, “It was just a reality check.”
Ekin Su when she hears the booing. 😁 #CBBUK pic.twitter.com/ahQ8rVp0Cd
— dagi (@dagiye) March 15, 2024
Wow. I did not know that Louis has had cancer#CBB #CBBUK #CelebrityBigBrother
— Chloe BSc, MA🦻🏻🧏🏻♀️ (@PastelUnicorn5) March 15, 2024
Louis confessed that the experience had shifted his perspective, grounding him in the realities beyond the glitz of the music industry.
News of Louis’s battle with cancer elicited a wave of shock and sympathy from social media users. Many expressed surprise that such a significant health struggle had gone unreported. Others commended Louis for his bravery in sharing his journey, offering support and encouragement.
Organizations like Blood Cancer UK thanked Louis for his openness and encouraged those affected by blood cancer to seek support. Louis’s willingness to share his story has undoubtedly sparked meaningful conversations about health and resilience.
Despite the emotional revelation, Louis’s time in the Celebrity Big Brother house has not been without controversy. He has faced criticism for his outspoken comments about former X Factor contestants and clients, sparking viewer debates.
Louis Walsh’s disclosure about his battle with cancer serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the resilience of the human spirit. His willingness to confront his struggles head-on and share his story is a testament to his courage and strength.