Madness star says he's got incurable cancer in health bombshell as fans rush to support him

A star from 80s pop legends Madness today revealed to fans that he’s suffering from incurable cancer. Chris Foreman who has been with the group for 45 years made a stark admission on the Madness Facebook page this lunchtime.

The guitarist said he had been left in ‘unbearable pain’ in his back and shoulders - and an MRI scan revealed he had a tumour on his spine.

The 69-year-old explained that his kidneys were only at ‘14 per cent function’ and he has been diagnosed with a form of cancer called myeloma. He said it was treatable but not curable but would be battling to get it into remission.

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He said: “Earlier this year I had severe pain in my upper back and shoulders. On the 28th of June we played a show in France and it had become unbearable. I had an MRI scan at the end of June and they found a tumour on my spine. On the 4th of July I went to the Royal Sussex and had all sorts of stuff done to me. I had radiotherapy which blasted it and stopped the pain. I actually had a Spinal Tap too - rock n roll! I wasn’t in good shape, to say the least. My kidneys were only at 14% function, which has greatly improved since then.

“What I’ve got is a form of cancer called myeloma. It’s treatable but not curable. When I get it into remission (I will!) I should be able to get back to normal life.”

Madness has sold over 28 million albums worldwide and was the biggest-selling singles band in the UK in the 1980s, with over 6 million singles sold during that decade and 214 weeks on the UK Singles Chart between 1980 and 1986 alone. They achieved 15 UK top ten singles.

Chris said that people can live with this form of cancer for a long time- but is hoping to get back onstage in 2026. He added: “Some people have had this for 20 years or more. I have a long way to go before I get back onstage but I aim to be back next year. The band, my family, my road crew family and my management team have all been very loving and supportive. One of the worst side effects is that I can’t drink alcohol but I’ve mastered a non alcoholic Margarita and those Zero alcohol beers ain’t too bad these days.

“It’s been really hard not being onstage with the band this year. They’ve worked really hard and the shows looked great. I don’t know how they did it without me, to be fair. I won’t be able to do Butlins or the tour this year, which is a great shame but ……”I’LL BE BACK!”

Fans rushed to support the star. Guns Ska said:” Dear Chris, take the time to get back in shape. I’ve been a fan of Madness and you since 1979. You’ve been a part of every moment of my life, the good and the bad, and thanks to you, I play ska in a band called the SKA FLAKES. In short, all my thoughts go out to you, Chris. Courage and get well soon! Kind regards.”

Cheryl said: “My husband is an MM sufferer also. Welcome to the worst club on the planet! Managing your symptoms is key to feeling well. Good luck on your journey. Medical advances are making this illness less devastating all the time. There’s also brilliant support networks available on FB and other platforms for you and your loved ones. Xxxx”

Suzanne said: “Wishing you well Chrissy Boy. A drummer friend of mine was also diagnosed with myeloma and responded really well to its treatment. I couldn’t believe how soon he was back playing so I am sure you will be back when you are feeling bitter, but in the meantime, just concentrate on yourself x”

Myeloma symptoms include persistent bone pain (especially in the back, ribs, and hips), unexplained fatigue and weakness, frequent infections, and easy bruising or bleeding. Other signs can be weight loss, excessive thirst, more frequent urination, constipation, and confusion, due to high calcium levels. Kidney problems, numbness or tingling, and shortness of breath can also occur. Early stages may show no symptoms, with the condition often found during routine blood tests.

For more information visit the NHS here.