Lauren Laverne has made a triumphant return to BBC Radio 6 Music, marking her first time back on air since revealing her cancer diagnosis last year.
The beloved presenter, 46, had stepped away from her role in August 2024 after disclosing that her cancer was unexpectedly discovered during a routine screening test.
Now, after months of recovery, she has resumed broadcasting with a fresh start in a new time slot, expressing excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to return.
A Brave Battle and a Career Shift
Laverne’s health revelation came as a shock to her listeners when she shared in August that doctors had caught her cancer early.
As a result, she took an extended leave from her morning show to focus on her treatment and recovery.
During her time away, she made the difficult decision to step down from hosting the BBC Radio 6 Music Breakfast Show, a role she had held for six years.
Instead of returning to her early morning duties, Laverne opted for a new schedule, moving to a mid-morning slot. Her former post was taken over by radio favorite Nick Grimshaw, who has since settled into the role with ease. With her new time slot, Laverne is embracing a fresh chapter in her career, one that allows her to continue connecting with her audience while also maintaining a schedule that prioritizes her well-being.
A Warm Welcome Back to the Airwaves
Returning to the BBC studios on Monday, Laverne joined Nick Grimshaw on his breakfast show before launching her own mid-morning program. The presenter was visibly thrilled to be back and described the moment as “fantastic.”
“I mean, I’ve been so excited,” she told Grimshaw during their chat. “The nervous energy is also just excitement to get going. I’ve done a couple of run-through shows just to remember how to press the buttons and all that business, that’s the main stuff that I worry about. Just trying out our new features and things—it’s so exciting.”
Grimshaw was just as delighted to have her back, responding, “We’re excited to have you back! We’ve really missed you. We’re very excited that you’re back on the radio.”
After their conversation, Laverne officially kicked off her show by playing music legend Sly Stone. She then took a moment to acknowledge her return and express her appreciation for the support she had received.
“The incredible Sly Stone to start, and thank you for welcoming me home and letting me be myself here on 6 Music! Feels so good to be back. Good morning. Cheers to Grimmy for a sensational Breakfast Show. So, let’s get going, shall we?” she said.
A Journey of Resilience and Recovery
During her time off, Laverne not only focused on her health but also reflected on the importance of music, community, and emotional well-being. In a statement earlier this year, she opened up about her challenging journey and the decision to transition to a new time slot.
“As listeners will know, I had a really tough 2024 and worried at times that I wouldn’t be able to return to the station I love so much,” she said. “It has been a huge honor (and so much fun) to host the Breakfast Show for six wonderful years, but it is time to pass the baton on, and to set my alarm a little later.”
She continued, “During my recovery, I learned all over again about the power of music, the people you surround yourself with, and the emotional support and joy radio can provide. I’m so grateful to be able to get back to doing what I love and sharing those things with our brilliant listeners every day.”
Back to Broadcasting Across the BBC
While Laverne’s return to BBC Radio 6 Music is a major milestone, it isn’t the only broadcasting role she has resumed. In November, she was given the all-clear and soon after returned to recording episodes of Desert Island Discs for BBC Radio 4, a show she has hosted since 2018. She also made an appearance on The One Show, marking her first television gig since her diagnosis.
Her return was met with immense support from colleagues and listeners alike. Throughout her health battle, she expressed gratitude for the kindness and encouragement she received from fans, BBC staff, and the medical teams who treated her.
In a heartfelt Instagram post in November, she shared the joyful news of her recovery, posting a beaming selfie while wearing a jumper that read, “Life is beautiful.” She also paid tribute to her family, including her two sons, Fergus, 17, and Mack, 14, and her husband, Graeme Fisher, for their unwavering support.
Looking Forward with Optimism
Lauren Laverne’s return to radio marks a significant step forward, not only in her career but also in her personal journey of resilience. With a fresh schedule, a renewed appreciation for her work, and the overwhelming support of her audience, she is stepping into this new chapter with excitement and optimism.
For listeners of BBC Radio 6 Music, her presence on the airwaves once again brings a familiar and comforting voice back into their daily routines. And for Laverne herself, it’s a chance to continue doing what she loves most—sharing great music, connecting with people, and embracing the joy of radio, one song at a time.
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