Comedian Milton Jones has cancelled several summer tour dates after being diagnosed with treatable prostate cancer.
The 60-year-old announced he will be undergoing surgery in the coming weeks and needs time to recover.
The much-loved funnyman, known for his deadpan delivery and appearances on shows like Mock The Week and Live At The Apollo, shared the news with fans today.
Jones confirmed that some dates from his ongoing “Ha!Milton” live tour will be affected by his diagnosis and treatment.
In a statement, Jones said: “I’m so sorry about this, but I need to announce the cancellation of several dates from my ongoing Ha!Milton live tour.”
“This difficult decision comes following a recent diagnosis of treatable prostate cancer. I’ll be undergoing surgery soon and will need time afterwards to fully recover.”
The comedian explained that the decision to cancel performances “has not been taken lightly”.
He thanked fans for their support and asked for privacy during this challenging time.
Jones added: “Trust me, abnormal service will resume as soon as possible and I’m looking forward to being back out on the road again soon – though probably not on a bike!”
The affected shows include Leeds, Coventry, Basingstoke, Sterts, Launceston, Durham, Hexham, Ilkley, Wakefield, Lichfield, Tunbridge Wells, Portsmouth, and Lyme Regis.
These performances were all scheduled for this summer and have been cancelled completely.
Additionally, summer dates in Colchester, Bridlington, Stroud, and London will be rescheduled to the autumn.
Jones confirmed that all dates currently scheduled for the autumn leg of the tour remain unaffected.
His performance at New Brighton’s Floral Pavilion on November 24 is still scheduled to go ahead.
Fans and colleagues quickly took to the comments under his announcement to issue support.
Olympian Sir Chris Hoy, who was diagnosed with terminal prostate cancer, wrote: “Really sorry to hear it mate, best of luck.”
Fellow comedians also chipped in with supportive messages.
“Best of luck Milton. Get yourself well and you’ll be back on the road soon enough,” Richard Herring wished.
Al Murray wrote: “All the best Milton for a speedy recovery”
Fans flooded the comments with their own messages, with one writing: “Take as much time as you need, hoping all goes well.”
“Health before humour Milton. Wishing you a speedy recovery sir,” another added.
A third shared: “Oh wow mate, so sorry to hear that. You take your time and take it easy. We’ll still be here.”
