Popular BBC Radio 2 presenter Trevor Nelson has spoken publicly for the first time about a recent health battle, revealing that he was diagnosed with a brain tumour and underwent what he described as “very serious” surgery. The award-winning broadcaster, who has been absent from his weekday Radio 2 programme for nearly two months, returned to social media to update fans on his condition and reassure listeners that he is recovering well.

Addressing widespread concern about his sudden disappearance from the airwaves, Nelson said: “There’s been a lot of speculation as to what’s wrong with me, I know that much. My phone’s blown up 20 times over with people asking what’s wrong with me.”

The 62-year-old presenter explained that he decided to share details of his diagnosis after receiving an overwhelming amount of support from friends, colleagues and fans. However, he noted that he was not yet ready to discuss every aspect of his experience.

“I was minding my own business and then it was discovered I had a brain tumour,” he said.

“As you can imagine, I was shocked. In fact, my world was turned upside down.

“Quite literally, my head was all over the place. I knew I had to stop work because I couldn’t be that guy on the radio knowing I had that going on.”

Fortunately, Nelson revealed that the operation was a success and that his recovery has been progressing positively. Since returning home, he has been resting, recuperating and undergoing post-operative treatment.

Reflecting on his current health, he told followers: “I can only tell you the truth, and the truth is I feel great right now.”

The veteran broadcaster added that he has already returned to playing golf and working out in the gym, with life gradually returning to normal apart from his broadcasting and DJ commitments.

Nelson currently hosts the weekday afternoon show on BBC Radio 2, airing between 2pm and 4pm. During his absence, DJ Spoony has been presenting the programme, but Nelson made it clear that he hopes to return to listeners as soon as possible.

“Let’s get that straight and back to that as soon as possible,” he said.

He also reassured supporters that there is no need for concern, stressing that he is recovering steadily and expects to be back on air “very soon”.

Throughout his recovery, Nelson found comfort in following the FIFA World Cup, describing the tournament as a welcome distraction during a challenging period.

Born Trevor Ricardo Nelson on 7 January 1964 in Hackney, London, to a family of St Lucian heritage, Nelson has become one of the most influential figures in British radio and music broadcasting.

After beginning his career in the music industry during the 1980s, he gained recognition through London’s Kiss FM before moving to BBC Radio 1, where he helped bring R&B and urban music to a national audience. Nelson first appeared on television in 1998 on MTV UK and presenting The Lick on MTV Base. Over the years, he has presented programmes across BBC Radio 1, BBC Radio 1Xtra and BBC Radio 2, earning a reputation as a pioneering voice in contemporary Black music.

Beyond radio, Nelson has enjoyed a successful career as a club DJ, television presenter and music industry executive. His contributions to broadcasting were recognised in 2002 when he was awarded an MBE. More recently, he received both a Special Recognition Award at the ARIAS and the TRIC Special Award, celebrating his lasting impact on the industry.

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