John Thaw has cancer, it was revealed yesterday. The popular TV actor, who made his name playing Inspector Morse in the eponymous detective series, said in a statement: “I am receiving treatment for cancer of the oesophagus. As soon as this has been completed, I intend to return to work.”
Cancer of the oesophagus is one of the deadliest forms of the disease and the survival rate among men is very poor, with just a six per cent of surviving more than five years. “It is difficult to get at and has often spread before the symptoms become apparent, “ a spokesperson for the Imperial Cancer Research Fund said. “Also, quality of life can be greatly impaired if there is surgery because it affects the ability to swallow.”
Diet, smoking and drinking all contribute to the disease and, although the actor is teetotal, he “still smokes like a chimney,” according to co-star Kevin Whately, who played Morse’s sidekick Lewis.
John’s wife, actress Sheila Hancock, also battled the disease after discovering a small lump in her breast. She has been clear for ten years now, but both John’s parents succumbed to cancer.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
