BBC favourite Lauren Laverne is gearing up for a triumphant return to the airwaves after a cancer scare.
The 46 year old broadcaster is set to resume her duties on The One Show and record new episodes of the beloved BBC Radio 4 programme Desert Island Discs this November, following a three-month hiatus due to health issues.
A spokesperson for the BBC expressed their enthusiasm: “We’re delighted to welcome Lauren back to the studio this month for The One Show and Desert Island Discs, with new episodes airing on Radio 4 from December 1, and we look forward to welcoming Lauren back to BBC Radio 6 Music in the new year.”
Laverne’s voice was last heard on her 6 Music show on August 15, with Nick Grimshaw, Nemone Metaxas, and Deb Grant filling in during her absence. The most recent original Desert Island Discs featured Peaky Blinders mastermind Steven Knight on August 11, with special extended and classical editions broadcasted since then.
Her last appearance on The One Show was also in August. Fans can anticipate a fresh Desert Island Discs episode on December 1, featuring a pre-recorded interview with comedian Mark Steel, believed to have been conducted prior to Laverne’s leave.
In the coming weeks, she will be back at the mic to record additional episodes and special Christmas instalments, with further announcements expected shortly. On August 21, Laverne bravely disclosed her “cancer diagnosis”, reassuring fans that it was detected “early and unexpectedly during a screening test”, reports Wales Online.
“I am expected to make a full recovery,” she added. “To my family and friends who have been absolutely extraordinary every step of the way – I am so very grateful and love you so much. And of course thank you to my colleagues.”
She thanked the staff at 6 Music, The One Show, Desert Island Discs and Independent Talent Group “for their support – and for giving me the time off that I need to get better”.
Laverne has not specified what type of cancer she is battling.
The 46 year old is best known for being a presenter on Desert Island Discs for BBC Radio 4 and is the host of BBC Radio 6 Music’s breakfast show.
One of her fans commented: “Oh Lauren, I’m so sorry you’re going through this. Sending lots and lots of positive vibes. We’re with you on this journey, every step of the way x.”
A second person also said: “You’re amazing Lauren. You bring so much love and joy on the radio every morning. Sending you love and strength. Xx.”