Former Channel 4 News presenter Jon Snow has revealed he has been living with Alzheimer’s disease for the past three years.
The 78-year-old broadcaster, who stepped down from Channel 4 News in 2021 after more than three decades on screen, has decided to speak publicly about his diagnosis in the hope of helping others facing dementia.
Jon’s journey will be explored in a new Channel 4 documentary, Jon Snow: A Last Big Story, airing on June 20. The film follows him as he comes out of retirement for one final investigation while also showing how Alzheimer’s has changed his daily life.
Speaking about his decision to go public, Jon said he first wanted to hide the condition because of the stigma surrounding dementia. But he now believes speaking out is important, saying: “If I don’t speak out, who will?”
His wife, Dr Precious Lunga, said friends had noticed changes in Jon before his diagnosis, while Jon himself admitted he did not initially believe anything was wrong.
The former newsreader has also spoken honestly about moments of confusion, memory loss and depression after retirement. At times, he thought friends had stopped calling him — only to realise he had forgotten their calls.
Despite the diagnosis, Jon says he does not feel defined by the condition. He hopes his story will raise awareness and encourage people to seek help earlier.
Alzheimer’s Society praised his courage, saying his openness could help spark a much-needed national conversation about dementia, diagnosis and support.
For millions of viewers, Jon Snow remains one of Britain’s most respected journalists — and now, with his “last big story”, he is using his voice to shine a light on one of the country’s most heartbreaking health
