Janice Forsyth, a beloved BBC Radio Scotland presenter, has announced her decision to step down from her broadcasting role after being diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Forsyth, 65, has been a key figure in the BBC for over 30 years, presenting shows across BBC Radio Scotland, Radio Four, and Radio Three.
Her decision to step back from her on-air duties follows a challenging period where she struggled with certain tasks, including navigation, and faced increasing anxiety. Forsyth shared that her symptoms first appeared in 2022, and while she initially attributed them to exhaustion after a long career in broadcasting and the emotional toll of losing her mother, Patricia, she now has a formal diagnosis of Alzheimer’s.
A Career Spanning Decades
Forsyth has had an illustrious career, known for her warmth and insightful interviews with renowned figures such as Leonard Cohen, David Bowie, and Billy Connolly. She was the host of Culture Studio, which later became the Janice Forsyth Show and eventually the Afternoon Show, a position she held from 2013 until early 2024.
Her presence was also felt across various BBC platforms, including Radio Café, Authors Live, and the Hogmanay Show, making her a cherished figure in the Scottish broadcasting scene. In addition to her radio career, Forsyth co-founded a podcast production company five years ago, a role she will continue despite stepping away from the spotlight of traditional broadcasting.
A “Huge Blow” with Some Relief
In a heartfelt statement, Forsyth explained that while the Alzheimer’s diagnosis was a “huge blow,” it also brought some relief as it provided clarity for the lapses she had been experiencing. She acknowledged the emotional weight of the past few years but emphasized her commitment to living in the moment and enjoying life for her personal pleasure rather than as a broadcaster.
Forsyth reflected on her time in broadcasting, saying, “I never took my role lightly and hope I always gave my best, both for your sake and that of my interviewees. It’s been a blast.” She expressed gratitude to her listeners for their support over the years and hoped they had enjoyed the diverse cultural content she shared.
A Legacy of Excellence in Broadcasting
Louise Thornton, Head of Commissioning at BBC Scotland, praised Forsyth’s contribution to the network. “Janice has been a hugely popular personality on our airwaves for many years. Her warmth, relaxed interviewing style, and peerless knowledge of arts, music, and culture in Scotland and beyond have made her a firm favourite with audiences,” Thornton said.
BBC Scotland continues to express their best wishes to Forsyth, with plans to explore future opportunities where they can collaborate again.
