The Late James Whale Gave Fans A Touching Goodbye Message Days Before His Death

Often referred to as Great Britain’s first “shock jock,” James Whale knew how to captivate his audience. He worked in radio for five decades and loved every minute of his career. James died on August 4, following a lengthy cancer battle, according to his employer, TalkTV.

Videos by InspireMore

“We are sad to announce that James Whale MBE died earlier today, aged 74, following a lengthy battle with cancer,” TalkTV shared on Instagram. “As a broadcasting legend for over 50 years, James will be missed by so many at TALK and the wider News UK family.”

According to Parade, doctors first diagnosed James Whale with kidney cancer in 2000. At the time, he had a kidney removed and went on with his life. He became a champion for cancer patients and helped found Kidney Cancer UK. In 2020, James made the heartbreaking announcement that his cancer had spread to his lungs, brain, and spine. He remained committed to his career and was vocal about his disease.

James Whale never hid from his cancer and kept his listeners in the loop about his disease, treatment, and progress. In May 2025, he made the heartbreaking announcement that he’d ended his cancer treatment. Per The Independent, James Whale continued his podcast, releasing the final episode just days before his death.

James shared a message with his listeners that seemed almost like he knew exactly what was about to happen.

“We’ve had a good time together, haven’t we?” Whale said to his wife before continuing, “Thank you for being a listener. I hope it helps in some way, and who knows what’s next? So, I can only say au revoir.”

Fans took to James Whale’s final Instagram post to share messages of love.

“Loved listening to you over the years Mr. Whale. You are a legend sir and will be loved and missed. Rest in peace sir,” a fan wrote.

“Loved listening to you at night. RIP butty,” another person wrote.

He was 74.

This story’s feature image is by Jeff Spicer/WireImage via Getty.