Why is Dame Esther Rantzen celebrating Christmas early?

Dame Esther is celebrating early in case she does not survive to experience Christmas Day due to her incurable lung cancer diagnosis.

What is Dame Esther Rantzen's current health status?

Dame Esther has incurable Stage 4 lung cancer and is not currently receiving treatment, as side effects outweigh the benefits.

What cause is Dame Esther Rantzen campaigning for?

Dame Esther is campaigning for the legalisation of assisted dying in the UK.

Home / Health / Dame Esther Rantzen Plans Early Christmas Amid Cancer Battle

Dame Esther Rantzen Plans Early Christmas Amid Cancer Battle

29 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Dame Esther is celebrating Christmas early due to her incurable lung cancer diagnosis.
She is not currently receiving treatment, with side effects outweighing benefits.
Dame Esther continues to campaign for the legalisation of assisted dying.

Dame Esther Rantzen Plans Early Christmas Amid Cancer Battle

Veteran broadcaster Dame Esther Rantzen is planning an "official" early Christmas celebration with her children and five grandchildren, acknowledging the possibility she may not live to see the actual festive day. Diagnosed with incurable Stage 4 lung cancer in January 2023, Dame Esther, 85, did not expect to survive past the following Christmas, yet she has now reached several milestones.