Veteran broadcaster Jon Snow, a familiar face from Channel 4 News, has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, the most prevalent form of dementia, the Alzheimer’s Society has confirmed.
The 78-year-old journalist is set to explore the realities of living with the condition in an upcoming documentary, Jon Snow: A Last Big Story, scheduled to air later this month.
Snow disclosed that he has been living with the disease since 2023, admitting that he was initially hesitant to seek medical advice, convinced there was nothing amiss.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Snow reflected on his ongoing questioning of the diagnosis, stating: "I mean sometimes I doubt whether I’ve really got it. I don’t know if it’s widespread knowledge. I don’t feel disabled in any way."
The journalist also revealed his involvement in a clinical trial for the condition. He has previously spoken about his mother, Joan, who also battled Alzheimer’s in the years leading up to her death.
According to the NHS, Alzheimer’s is characterised by the progressive decline of brain function, impacting memory, cognitive skills, and other mental faculties.
Michelle Dyson, chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Society, lauded Snow’s decision to go public. "Jon’s decision to talk publicly about his dementia diagnosis is a real act of courage and his story will resonate with so many," she said.
Ms Dyson added that Snow’s support would "help spark a national conversation about dementia that we so desperately need," noting that despite being the UK’s leading cause of death, dementia does not receive the same urgent attention as conditions like cancer.
She further highlighted how Snow and his wife are "shining a light on the need for faster, fairer access to diagnosis," underscoring the critical role of early detection.
Louisa Compton, Channel 4’s head of news, current affairs, specialist factual, and sport, emphasised Snow’s integral role at the broadcaster.
"Jon Snow is not just one of Channel 4’s most recognisable faces – he is part of our very fabric and is dearly loved by viewers around the UK," she commented.
Compton expressed the "profound privilege" of documenting his "last big investigation" in a sensitive film that blends Snow’s journalistic acumen with his new life with Alzheimer’s. She voiced hope that the film would significantly "raise awareness of how to live whilst facing a life-changing diagnosis."
Jon Snow: A Last Big Story is scheduled to be broadcast on Channel 4 at 8pm on 20 June.
