In a heartfelt and deeply personal revelation, former England and Liverpool football legend John Barnes has spoken out about his battle with prostate cancer – a subject he describes as still “taboo” for many men. The 62-year-old striker, who scored countless goals and earned 79 caps for England, revealed that he had undergone surgery to remove his prostate, and is now fully recovered.

Barnes shared his story during an appearance on Times Radio, addressing a topic that affects thousands of men but rarely gets the attention it deserves. “I’ve had prostate cancer, I’ve had my prostate out, not many people know,” he admitted. “It’s a bit of a taboo subject because we support women with breast cancer, and it’s not even an issue for men. Whereas with men, the government says, ‘Yeah, prostate cancer, we need more awareness, we need people to come forward.’”

The football icon emphasized the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding male health issues, particularly prostate cancer, which is more prevalent in black men. “Men have to bite the bullet, swallow their pride, admit if they have problems, and speak about it. So it’s a good thing that this conversation is happening now,” Barnes said.

He spoke candidly about the fears many men face regarding treatment. “A lot of men don’t want to admit it or have it done because it makes them feel less than a man. But you’re not. You’re exactly the same. You’re still here, you’re still the same person, and that’s the main thing.”

Barnes’ revelations coincide with a government-backed initiative inviting all black men aged 45 to 74 to participate in a prostate cancer screening trial. The former star described the program as “a good thing,” underlining the critical need for early detection.

Prostate Cancer UK hailed Barnes’ courage in speaking out. Chiara De Biase, Fundraising and Health Strategy Director, said: “We’re so grateful to John for sharing his experience. By speaking openly about his diagnosis, high-profile football figures like John and Chris Hughton help spread awareness and galvanize the football community.”

De Biase stressed that Barnes’ story is a powerful reminder of the dangers of prostate cancer. “One in eight men will get prostate cancer. Your risk increases if you’re black or have a family history, like John. But the disease can be curable if detected early.”

The charity also highlighted its groundbreaking £60 million TRANSFORM trial, which has recently received doubled government support. The program aims to screen tens of thousands more black men across the UK, ensuring those at highest risk are diagnosed earlier, when treatment is most effective. “This gives our dads, mates, and partners the best chance of living longer, healthier lives,” De Biase concluded.

For John Barnes, this is more than a personal victory – it’s a call to action. By sharing his journey, he’s not just celebrating his survival; he’s inspiring men everywhere to face the facts, speak up, and take control of their health.

💬 As Barnes says, it’s not a matter of pride or fear – it’s a matter of life. And in telling his story, he may just save the lives of thousands of men who, like him, once suffered in silence.