Trisha Goddard has revealed she’s taking part in Celebrity Big Brother to raise awareness and offer hope to those living with cancer. At 67, the beloved broadcaster is using her platform to show the world that it’s possible to “live successfully with cancer and not be so scared of dying that you become scared of living.”
In February 2024, Goddard publicly shared that she had been diagnosed with stage four breast cancer in 2022—a form of cancer that can be treated but not cured.
A Courageous Mission in the Big Brother House
On Monday night, Trisha stepped into the Celebrity Big Brother house alongside a star-studded lineup, including EastEnders’ Patsy Palmer, singer Chesney Hawkes, and US star JoJo Siwa.
Speaking about her decision to finally accept the invitation after years of turning it down, Trisha said, “I’ve been asked to do it every single year, and I’ve always thought, ‘Are you kidding me?” But a conversation with her daughter helped change her perspective.
“I’ve been really vocal on Instagram about the language we use when talking about cancer and the services that help people live well with it. Big Brother gives me a powerful platform to show people that life doesn’t stop after a diagnosis.”
Changing the Narrative Around Cancer
Goddard has long been an advocate for mental health and patient-led care, and she’s bringing that same approach to her own cancer journey.
“I’ve worked closely with my medical team to create a plan that allows me to continue living fully—even inside the Big Brother house. My team always asks, ‘What do you need to help you do what you need to do?’ And we’ve made it work.”
She praised the Celebrity Big Brother production team, sharing that they’ve gone the extra mile to ensure her health needs are met, including direct communication with her oncologist and palliative care team.
“Instead of treating me like I’m fragile or on the scrap heap, they asked how they could make it happen. That mindset means everything.”
New House, new layout, new Celebs pending 👀 #CBBUK pic.twitter.com/naganwqUZh
— Celebrity Big Brother UK (@bbuk) April 4, 2025Carefully Planned Care During the Show
Trisha is managing her treatment schedule around the show with precision and support. “I had an infusion just this Monday and will fly back immediately after the show to continue treatment. My medication will be with me in the house, and my specialist therapist is working with the show’s medical team.”
She emphasized the importance of understanding palliative care, saying, “When people hear that word, they panic. But it’s really about managing symptoms to keep living well—and that’s what my team is doing.”
Focused on the Message, Not the Win
When asked about her chances of winning, Trisha shared that her mission goes beyond the competition. “I’m here to share my message—whether I leave in week one or make it to the end. I don’t expect everyone to know who I am, and that’s okay.”
A Long Journey with Breast Cancer
Trisha previously battled breast cancer in 2008, after doctors discovered a lump during a routine mammogram. In a Hello! Magazine interview last year, she revealed the cancer had returned.
“It’s not going to go away. And with that knowledge comes grief and fear. But I must keep enjoying what I’ve always enjoyed.”
A Trailblazer in Television
Trisha Goddard rose to fame as the host of her groundbreaking talk show “Trisha” on ITV, which ran from 1998 to 2005, before moving to Channel 5 and later hosting other talk shows. People widely recognize her as a pioneering figure in UK daytime television and a passionate mental health advocate.
Trisha Goddard ’s appearance on Celebrity Big Brother is more than just reality TV—it’s a heartfelt mission to inspire others to live boldly, even when faced with life-altering challenges. Her courage and honesty are a reminder that life doesn’t stop after a diagnosis—it evolves.
