It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of our friend, founder, and Lifetime President of Kidney Cancer UK, James Whale MBE, who died aged 74 following a long battle with kidney cancer on the 4th August, 2025.
James was a pioneering and influential broadcaster whose outspoken and provocative style made him a household name. Rising to prominence in the 1980s with The James Whale Radio Show, he became a distinctive voice in British media, known for his sharp wit, fearless interviews, and unwavering opinions. His success on the radio led to a television adaptation on ITV, and over the next five decades, he hosted programmes across TalkSport, LBC, BBC Essex, and in 2016, he famously appeared in Celebrity Big Brother. In that same year, he joined TalkRADIO and TalkTV, where he remained until his passing.
Diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2000, James had one kidney removed and went on to channel his energy into advocacy. In 2006, he founded the James Whale Fund for Kidney Cancer, which evolved into Kidney Cancer UK, becoming the leading national voice for patients with the disease. In 2020, he announced the cancer had returned and spread to his spine, brain, and lungs. Despite this, James continued to work and campaign for greater awareness and support for those affected by kidney cancer.
In recognition of his services to broadcasting and charity, James was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2024. He remained on air until shortly before his passing, embodying resilience, professionalism, and a lifelong passion for his craft.
James is survived by his wife, Nadine Lamont-Brown, whom he married in 2021, and his two sons from a previous marriage. His legacy will live on through his contributions to British media and his tireless advocacy for kidney cancer patients across the UK.
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