Well-loved BBC radio host Tony Blackburn recently shared a health update, revealing a terrifying experience from two years ago when he “nearly died” from sepsis. The host of 'Sounds of the 60s' on BBC Radio 2 discussed his health scare and extensive career during an appearance on ITV’s Loose Women.

Tony, now 82, recounted the incident where he was seriously ill with sepsis, a life-threatening reaction to an infection where the immune system damages the body’s own tissues and organs. He humorously noted his unawareness of how critical his condition was at the time, joking that when he woke up to find his family around his bed, he thought they were after his money.

During his road to recovery, Tony credits his former BBC colleague, Noel Edmonds, who is currently living in New Zealand, for helping him through. The two exchanged messages as Tony worked his way back to full health.

Tony Blackburn’s career began in the 1960s on pirate stations such as Radio Caroline and Radio London before he joined the BBC. He has since enjoyed a long and successful tenure with the broadcaster and was also the first-ever winner of 'I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!'

Now back to full health, Tony Blackburn is not only continuing to host 'Sounds of the 60s' on air but is also preparing to embark on a UK tour in 2026. This tour will celebrate classic songs from the era, featuring performances by the Sounds of the 60s All-Star Band and Singers.

The setlist promises an evening of hits and medleys made famous by iconic artists including The Everly Brothers, Elvis, The Drifters, Marvin Gaye, The Rolling Stones, The Walker Brothers, Diana Ross & The Supremes, The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and Stevie Wonder. Blackburn expressed immense joy in seeing audiences sing and dance along, calling each night a celebration of both the songs and the memories they evoke, eagerly anticipating sharing the music he has loved his entire life across the country.