James Whale’s wife Nadine Lamont-Brown has urged fans to support a charity close to the late broadcaster’s heart following his death at the age of 74. Posting on X, Nadine wrote: “James and I decided that we would do all that we can to help this wonderful charity. The hospice made his final days so peaceful and special. Please donate if you can x @nadine_lamont @heartofkenthosp.” She also shared a link to a JustGiving page which, at the time of writing, had raised £1,415.
The fundraising page states: “Heart of Kent Hospice provides compassionate care and support to over 2,000 local people and their loved ones each year, ensuring they receive the highest quality of life during difficult times. Thank you for supporting Heart of Kent Hospice. Your efforts help us raise the £7 million needed annually to continue our vital services. Please share with your audience how every pound donated makes a world of difference, enabling us to provide exceptional care and support to those who need it most.
“Together, make a real impact in our community.”
Whale, a household name in British broadcasting, died after a long battle with kidney cancer. First diagnosed in 2000, he underwent surgery to remove one kidney before revealing in 2020 that the disease had spread to his remaining kidney, spine, brain, and lungs.
Despite a terminal prognosis, he continued to work and raise awareness, founding Kidney Cancer UK in 2006 to support patients and fund research.
His broadcasting career spanned more than five decades. Known for pioneering late-night shock-jock phone-ins, he hosted The James Whale Radio Show on ITV and became a cultural icon.
From 1995 to 2008, he fronted TalkSport’s late-night slot before moving to LBC, where his drivetime show delivered record ratings.
He also presented BBC Essex’s breakfast show from 2013 to 2016 and appeared on BBC Radio Berkshire, BBC Three Counties Radio, and BBC Radio Kent.
From 2016, Whale hosted evening shows on talkRADIO before moving to TalkTV with James Whale Unleashed. On television, his credits included Whale On, Dial Midnight, Central Weekend Live for ITV, and Talk About for BBC One.
Recognised as one of Britain’s first “shock jocks”, he was famed for his witty, brash style and interactive listener segments.
His final podcast was recorded just days before his death, during which he thanked fans for their loyalty.
Colleagues have described him as a companion, provocateur, and legend who will be greatly missed. In 2024, he was awarded an MBE for services to broadcasting and charity.
Away from the studio, Whale endured personal tragedy when his first wife, Melinda, died of lung cancer in 2018.
He later married Nadine, who was by his side during his final days at Heart of Kent Hospice. He is also survived by his two sons, James and Peter.
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‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.express.co.uk ’
