Remembering James Whale MBE, 1951 – 2025

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 4th August, 2025.

Born May 13th 1951, 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 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 famously appeared in Celebrity Big Brother. In that same year joined TalkRADIO and TalkTV, where he remained to 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.

Malcolm Packer, CEO of Kidney Cancer UK, paid tribute, saying:  “I am deeply saddened at the news of James’ passing and, on behalf of our Chairman, Board of Trustees, and the Kidney Cancer UK team, we extend our deepest and most sincere condolences to Nadine and James’ family. In starting the Charity, James gave a huge service to support patients across the UK for almost 20 years. James and I talked often; he was great fun, a lovely, giving person in his personal life, and cared very much about helping fellow kidney cancer patients. We will miss his wit, acerbic humour, and love of a good debate very much. Rest in peace, James.”

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