Scottish comedian Janey Godley has revealed she is receiving end-of-life care following the spread of her cancer. The 63-year-old from Glasgow announced she would be getting palliative care and going into a hospice in a video shared on social media on Wednesday. Godley thanked the NHS and those who have cared for her as well as her family, friends and fans for their support. The Scottish comedian said in the video: “So I’m now in palliative care and I’m at end-of-life care now in the hospital. The chemo ran out of options and I just couldn’t take any more of it and the cancer has spread.
“So it looks like this will be getting to near the end of it and it’s really difficult to speak about this and say to people.”
Godley, who found viral fame with her dubbed pastiches of Nicola Sturgeon’s coronavirus news briefings during the pandemic, revealed she had ovarian cancer in November 2021. She was given the all-clear in 2022. However, she later announced that another scan had shown signs of the disease in her abdomen.
Earlier this month, she cancelled her forthcoming tour this autumn due to her stage four ovarian cancer, which had been kept at bay through NHS treatment over the last few years and had returned with a few added complications.
In the new video, she added: “It is devastating news to know that I’m facing end-of-life but we all come to an end sometime. I want to thank everybody for supporting the family, especially (her daughter) Ashley and my husband.
“The overwhelming support has been amazing, and I don’t know how long I’ve got left before anybody asks. I’m not a TikTok. So I just want you to know that I appreciate all the love you’ve gave me and all the support. Cancer affects two in one people, and it’s affected me.”
Many friends and celebrities replied to Godley’s post supporting her, including the TV chef Nigella Lawson, the comedian Dom Joly and Sturgeon. The former Scottish first minister wrote: “Sending you so much love, my friend. You are an inspiration.”
Lawson wrote: “Oh Janey, this is heartbreaking. Thank you for all you’ve given the world - and for being you.”
Born in poverty in Glasgow in 1961, Godley went on to become a regular co-presenter on BBC Radio 4’s Loose Ends, as well as fronting BBC Radio 4 series The C Bomb. The comedian was photographed at Turnberry golf resort in Ayr, on the West Coast of Scotland, with her infamous “unwelcome” sign for Donald Trump in 2016.
Godley's announcement sparked a wave of supportive messages from fellow comedians, celebrities, and fans across the globe. Many shared their admiration for her humor, resilience, and bravery in the face of adversity. The outpouring of love underscored the significant impact she has had on the comedy scene and beyond.
In her video message, Godley spoke candidly about the challenges she has faced, acknowledging that cancer affects a significant portion of the population. Her message of hope and resilience resonated with many, offering a sense of solidarity and empathy to those battling similar challenges.
The comedian's courage in sharing her journey has not only garnered admiration but also inspired numerous people. Her story serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is strength to be found in vulnerability, humor, and the power of human connection. As Janey Godley navigates this challenging chapter, her legacy as a beloved comedian and a champion for social justice will continue to inspire generations to come.
