Matt Forde

Matt Forde

Matt Forde began his comedy career in 1998 at the age of 16, performing at gigs in his hometown of Nottingham while working for the East Midlands Labour Party. With his political views forming the backbone to his stand-up, Forde debuted his hour-long show, Dishonourable Member, at the 2011 Edinburgh Fringe. He has also written for 8 Out of 10 Cats, presents a weekly show on talkSPORT, and co-hosted a radio show with Jon Richardson on BBC 6 Music.
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Matt Forde reveals he can't walk after cancer treatment

But comic hopes to be back on his feet soon

Matt Forde has told fans he is currently unable to walk following his cancer treatment,

Last year, the political comedian revealed he had a spinal tumour and would be taking time off for the treatment. It involved him having the base of his spine removed, which has left him unable to walk.

However the 41-year-old – who returned to his  Rock 'N' Roll Football show on Absolute Radio last weekend – says he expects to be back on his feet soon.

He gave his update on a statement issued to fans who had bought tickets for his tour show, explaining why it has been postponed,

He read: ‘As you may be aware, I was diagnosed with cancer at the end of last year. If you weren't aware, I'm sorry you've had to find out this way. 

‘I had surgery a few months ago and was recently discharged from hospital. The operation was a success, but because it involved the base of my spine being removed, I'm now learning to walk and stand again.

‘You can probably see where this is heading. It's quite hard to be a stand-up comedian if you can't stand up. ‘Luckily for me, this is only a temporary problem and I'll literally be back on my feet soon and mocking politicians on right, left and centre.’

Saying he ‘couldn’t wait’ to get back on tour he said that new dates would  be announced soon and tickets would remain valid.’

Writing on  X last month, the comic said:  'This will sound mad, but having cancer and having it removed, along with part of my spine, has been the most wonderful experience of my life. I've met the most exceptional people who have given me the privilege of living longer.’

He was hit with a wave of support following the post, prompting him to add: ‘Thank you so much for all your messages, I'm blown away. I'm not saying I recommend getting cancer, but if there is an upside it's the love that others show you. That and the hospital food which really was excellent.’

Forde – who was treated at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital in Stanmore, Middlesex – says he hopes to return to his British Scandal and Political Party podcasts soon, too.

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Published: 9 Feb 2024

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Past Shows

Edinburgh Fringe 2007

Matt Forde's On Heat


Edinburgh Fringe 2008

Matt Forde's On Heat


Edinburgh Fringe 2009

Matt Forde: Fordy's Lock-In


Edinburgh Fringe 2011

Matt Forde: Dishonourable Member


Edinburgh Fringe 2013

Matt Forde: The Political Party


Agent

We do not currently hold contact details for Matt Forde's agent. If you are a comic or agent wanting your details to appear here, for a one-off fee of £59, email steve@chortle.co.uk.

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