University Challenge's Jeremy Paxman diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease
The TV host has released a statement
Last updated 21st May 2021
University Challenge host Jeremy Paxman has released an emotional statement revealing he's been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the age of 71.
The TV host, who has presented the popular quiz show since 1994, confirmed his symptoms are 'currently mild' and revealed he has been receiving 'excellent treatment'.
Releasing a statement to PA Agency, Jeremy said: "I can confirm I have recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. I am receiving excellent treatment and my symptoms are currently mild.
“I plan to continue broadcasting and writing for as long as they’ll have me and have written about my diagnosis in more detail for the June issue of the marvellous Saga Magazine.
“I will not be making any further comment.”
As well as being the longest serving quizmaster on TV for his slot on University Challenge, Jeremy has worked on a number of other high-profile shows such as Newsnight and Breakfast Time.
The highly respected presenter was the star of Newsnight from 1989-2014, where he interviewed a number of high profile figures including Boris Johnson when he was the Mayor of London.
According to the NHS, Parkinson's Disease is 'a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged over many years.'
The three main symptoms including slow movement, stiff and inflexible muscles, and most commonly, shaking of particular parts of the body.
You can find out more about Parkinson's disease on the NHS website.