Madness guitarist Chris Foreman has been with the band for 45 years and has now shared a health update with fans
Katy Hallam and Ben Hurst
17:11, 29 Aug 2025
Chris Foreman of the english ska band Madness is battling cancer, he told fans(Image: Getty Images)
A member of 80s ska legends Madness has today disclosed to supporters that he’s battling terminal cancer.
Chris Foreman, who has been part of the band for 45 years, made the heartbreaking announcement on the Madness Facebook page this afternoon.
The guitarist revealed he had been experiencing ‘excruciating pain’ in his back and shoulders – with an MRI scan showing a tumour on his spine.
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The 69 year old disclosed that his kidneys were functioning at just ’14 per cent capacity’ and he has been diagnosed with a type of cancer known as myeloma.
The NHS says signs of myeloma include ongoing bone discomfort (particularly affecting the back, ribs, and hips), unexplained tiredness and frailty, regular infections, and easy bruising or bleeding.
Chris 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.
(Image: Getty)
“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.”
He continued: “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!””
Supporters flocked to back the musician. Guns Ska commented: ” 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”.