Veteran news presenter Dermot Murnaghan has revealed he is living with stage 4 prostate cancer.
The broadcaster, who anchored major bulletins for Sky News from 2007 until his departure in early 2023, shared the diagnosis in a personal message while promoting a cancer fundraising event.
Murnaghan, 66, has enjoyed a distinguished career across British television, having presented on BBC News, Channel 4 and ITN.
He also fronted the long-running BBC quiz show Eggheads from 2003 to 2014, before being succeeded by Jeremy Vine.
On Monday, the 67-year-old shared on social media: “Some personal news……
“I’ve been diagnosed with Stage IV advanced prostate cancer I’m fortunate to have a simply outstanding medical team looking after me, who I can’t thank enough – they are administering the best possible care with expertise, compassion and sensitivity.”
He continued: “I’m responding positively to their excellent treatment, and feeling well. I’m blessed to be fortified by the monumental love and support of my wife, family and close friends.
“Needless to say my message to all men over 50, in high risk groups, or displaying symptoms, is get yourself tested and campaign for routine prostate screening by the NHS.”
“Early detection is crucial. And be aware, this disease can sometimes progress rapidly without obvious symptoms. Details @ProstateUK @PCR_News,” he added.
Despite his diagnosis, Murnaghan said he remains determined to take part in Olympic cyclist Sir Chris Hoy’s upcoming charity bike ride in Glasgow this September.
He urged his followers to support the cause, which raises funds for cancer research and support services.
Sir Chris, 49, also disclosed last year that he had been diagnosed with terminal prostate cancer and had been given a prognosis of two to four years.
Born in Devon, he began as a trainee reporter on local newspapers before joining Channel 4 as a researcher. He soon moved in front of the camera, reporting for The Business Programme and later presenting segments on The Channel 4 Daily, eventually becoming its lead anchor.
Some personal news……I’ve been diagnosed with Stage IV advanced prostate cancer I’m fortunate to have a simply outstanding medical team looking after me, who I can’t thank enough - they are administering the best possible care with expertise, compassion and sensitivity.
— Dermot Murnaghan (@DermotMurnaghan) June 23, 2025
Murnaghan also stepped in as a relief presenter on Channel 4 News, covering for regular host Jon Snow.
After a period working in Switzerland, he returned to the UK in 1989. By the mid-1990s, he was a familiar face on ITV, presenting Lunchtime News and News at Ten — where he broke the news of Princess Diana’s death in 1997.
From 2002 to 2007, he was a main presenter on BBC Breakfast, as well as a regular stand-in for the BBC’s flagship Six O’Clock and Ten O’Clock bulletins.
He joined Sky News in 2007, where he remained for 16 years. His time at the network included major live events such as the 2019 general election and the announcement of Queen Elizabeth II’s death in 2022.
Murnaghan has been married to journalist and producer Maria Keegan since 1989. The couple have four children and live in North London.
If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with cancer, Macmillan can offer support and information. You can contact their helpline on 0808 808 00 00 (7 days a week from 8am to 8pm), use their webchat service, or visit their site for more information.
