BBC Radio 2 DJ Trevor Nelson has announced he was diagnosed with a brain tumour, two months after stepping back from his broadcasting duties due to undisclosed health concerns. The 62-year-old R&B icon shared the news in an Instagram video on August 20, 2026, stating that his world had been turned 'upside down' by the discovery.
Trevor Nelson reveals brain tumour after health break
In June 2026, Nelson had extended his break from Radio 2, citing health issues without providing specific details. He now confirms that a routine check-up led to the discovery of a brain tumour. 'I was minding my own business and then it was discovered that I had a brain tumour,' he said in the video. 'As you can imagine, I was shocked. In fact, my world was turned upside down.'
Nelson described the experience as having his head 'all over the place' and acknowledged that he had to stop working. He underwent what he called a 'very serious surgery' that went well, followed by a month of recovery and post-operative treatment. 'I can only tell you the truth,' he added. 'I feel great right now, I feel ready to come back. I feel energised and almost back to myself.'
Recovery and return to work plans
Nelson reassured fans that he would return to the airwaves soon, beginning with his radio shows before resuming his DJ gigs. 'I've had a really serious situation but I've come out the other side and I feel great. I feel raring to go. I feel in good health,' he said. He captioned the Instagram video: 'I'm feeling good. I will be back to work very soon. To radio first and later to my DJ gigs. Thank you for all your messages, your love and your support.'
The DJ noted that speculation about his condition had been widespread, with his phone 'blown up 20 times over with people asking what's wrong with me.' He added that he was not planning to go into extensive detail at this stage but might 'deep dive' into the story later so fans could hear the 'whole crazy story.'
Broadcasting career and recent accolades
Trevor Nelson is a prominent voice on BBC Radio, presenting weekdays from 2-4pm on Radio 2 and Sundays from 11am-1pm on BBC Radio 1Xtra. Earlier in 2026, he won the Judge's Special Recognition Award at the ARIAs, the industry's yearly awards. The same week as his health update, he received the TRIC Special Award, recognising his broadcasting career across radio and television.
In June, Nelson had stated that during a routine check-up, he was advised to get further testing, leading to his decision to step back. 'So I'm concentrating on getting better, being back to 100% me and to getting back behind the mic and the decks,' he said at the time. His latest update confirms he is on track to return to work, prioritising his radio shows as a first step before returning to live DJ events.
