Culture reporter
BBC
Singer Jessie J has announced her diagnosis of early breast cancer.
The 37-year-old shared this news on Instagram, mentioning she intends to undergo surgery after her performance at Capital’s Summertime Ball, a mini-festival scheduled at London’s Wembley Stadium later this month.
She expressed that she had been “in and out of tests” recently.
“Cancer is tough in any form, but I’m clinging to the word ‘early,’” she stated in a video message.
“It’s a rather dramatic way to get a breast enhancement,” she quipped.
“I’ll be taking some time off after the Summertime Ball for my surgery, but I promise to return with bigger breasts and new music.”
The singer from Essex, recently confirmed to perform at September’s Radio 2 in the Park music festival, shared that she is going public with her diagnosis to help her process it and to stand in solidarity with others facing similar challenges.
“I felt it was essential to be transparent and share this,” she added. “One, because I often don’t discuss this enough. I’m not processing it because I’m so focused on work.
“I know from past experiences that sharing has helped me, receiving love and support, as well as hearing others’ stories. I’m open about my life.
“It pains me that so many are facing similar or worse situations—that aspect truly hurts.”
The artist, who welcomed a son in 2023, expressed that this diagnosis has provided her with “remarkable perspective.”
“But I genuinely need to process this and talk about it, and I could really use a hug,” she said to her followers.
“You’ve been there for me through both my ups and downs, and I don’t want this to be any different.”
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TV and radio host Gaby Roslin commented, sending “lots of love and big hugs”.
Pop icon Rita Ora responded: “You are my favorite person and I’m praying for you; you can handle this.
“My mother experienced this, and I understand the mental toll of surgery and treatment; I’m here for you. X.”
Support also poured in from Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Leona Lewis, Rochelle and Marvin Humes, Wretch 32, and Paloma Faith.
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women within the UK.
According to the NHS: “Regular breast checks are essential for understanding what is normal for you.
“This enables you to notice any differences in size, appearance, or sensations in your breasts.”
Jessie J has faced health challenges throughout her life, being diagnosed with a heart condition as a child, having a stroke during her teenage years, and briefly losing her hearing in 2020 due to Meniere’s disease.
Last year, she disclosed her diagnoses of ADHD and OCD.
Her latest announcement follows her prior statement to BBC Radio 2 host Scott Mills, where she mentioned declining a significant Broadway role as Sally Bowles in Cabaret.
“I was recently offered a major Broadway role, but I declined as it wasn’t the right moment for me,” she clarified. “My son was still very young, and I simply couldn’t do it.”
Highlighting her background in musical theatre, she added: “I will take it on someday; I was proud of my audition process and thrilled to have received the offer.”