I’m A Celebrity winner Christopher Biggins previously opened up about dying after undergoing major open-heart surgery.
The beloved TV star – who is on The Chase Celebrity Special today (November 30) – has been a staple on screens for years. From winning I’m A Celeb to starring in Celebrity Big Brother, Biggins has remained booked and busy.
However, back in 2021, he suffered a health scare that led to him needing open heart surgery to fit a new valve.
I’m A Celebrity star Biggins on ‘getting old’
Despite his success over the years, Biggins – who was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2010 – previously admitted that getting older has hit him hard, especially after surgery.
It’s not easy getting old.
Speaking to The Sun in 2021, the actor revealed he had a new valve inserted into his heart following a health scare.
“I’m like the bionic man. I’ve had a new knee put in and I’ve had a new valve put into my heart. It’s not easy getting old,” he said.
The star then opened up about the grim realisation that life is precious, revealing that as an older person, the things you attend “are funerals and memorial services”.
Biggins added: “It makes you aware that life is very shallow. It’s not easy. You never know when you’re going to go. I’ve always been aware of being a big boy — aware of my weight and looking at going on diets,” he said.
Biggins diagnosed with diabetes
Meanwhile, a few years back, Biggins opened up about being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.
The panto legend was given the diagnosis while performing a play at the Edinburgh Festival. According to Biggins, he found it “difficult” to concentrate on acting and learn the script.
He told My Weekly: “I was nodding off, I just wasn’t myself. And so, in desperation, I went to the doctor and she carried out some tests. When I went back for the results, I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, which was a shock.”
Biggins then said: “My body had been telling me that there was something wrong but I just thought I was tired.”
Watch Biggins on The Chase Celebrity Special on Saturday (November 30) at 8:00pm on ITV1.
Read more: I’m A Celebrity winner Christopher Biggins reveals how much he was paid as he lashes out at ITV
What’s your favourite memory of Biggins? You can leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know.