S Poddar
Kanya King, the visionary behind the MOBO Awards, has revealed that she is battling stage four bowel cancer. The 55-year-old, renowned for championing and celebrating Black music in the UK, made the announcement on Instagram, describing the diagnosis as something she “never saw coming.”
It was just after the outpouring of emotion as King accepted a lifetime achievement award at the Live Awards, an industry event held at London’s Troxy venue, that she announced her impending retirement. Her move was met with outpouring support from her fans, friends, and even some in the music and entertainment industries.
She told the world in her emotional statement, “Learning I have stage four bowel cancer was something I never saw coming, and I am still processing this unexpected reality. I know that this journey will undoubtedly be challenging, but finding meaning through adversity has always guided me.”
The message of the king was not just to herself but to the larger populace. She emphasized the early diagnosis and proactive health care by pointing out, “This diagnosis isn’t the end of my story – it’s a chance to inspire resilience, raise awareness, and amplify the message of early detection. If my story can save just one life, then it’s a story worth telling.”
Support for King has been swift and heartfelt. Alexandra Burke, a star of The X Factor, commented on King’s post, offering “love and prayers.” Labour MP Abena Oppong-Asare praised King’s courage, calling her an “inspiration.” Comedian Judi Love also shared her admiration, writing, “You are a truly incredible Queen for all that you’re doing for the industry and talent, plus now sharing this with us. Somehow you’re still encouraging others.”
A snapshot early in this year evidences King attending an event at Soho House, where she is shown elegantly and composed. Another photographs her with Rose Hudson-Wilkin, Marie Hanson, and Queen Camilla, evidencing that she continues to exercise influence and prominence both culturally and socially.
As someone who has spent decades breaking barriers and creating opportunities for underrepresented artists, King now uses her platform to spotlight health equity. She says, “I want to use my platform to shine a light on the importance of health equity and to empower others facing chronic illnesses to keep pushing.”
Advanced cancer, or stage four cancer, is the fourth stage of cancer where the disease has spread from its initial location to other parts of the body. King has been open about her condition; in fact, she posted a conversation with Labour MP Dawn Butler on social media. The video described her diagnosis as “devastating” and encouraged people to trust their instincts about their health. She said, “If you think something is wrong, do not take no for an answer from your doctor.”
Her faith has been a key source of strength during this time. “My faith remains my anchor, and I believe this chapter will be one of growth, resilience, and service,” King shared.
The news comes at a time when bowel cancer is increasingly worrying the medical fraternity, which has seen it grow at one of the fastest rates in younger populations in England. Health experts continue to stress routine screenings and awareness of symptoms.
Support has been flooding in from all corners of the entertainment world. Singer Oritse Williams has praised King’s bravery: “Strength and prayers all the way for you, Kanya. To encourage and think of others whilst going through this is a true testament to your character.” Comedian Babatunde Aleshe also wished King well, echoing the views of many who see King as an icon of resilience and determination.
She, through work with the MOBO Awards, became a modern-day symbol of empowerment and activism and now draws on her personal story to inspire even more awareness. Still fighting cancer, her disease hasn’t seeped into her determination to make a difference; she speaks to hope and perseverance like no other.
It makes me recall the role of early detection in fighting illnesses such as cancer, as with the king’s bravery and advocacy. Her story inspires but educates as well; it bears light to the importance of taking one’s health into one’s hands and seeking medical attention when needed.
As she passes through this trying chapter of her life, King is a force of nature, testifying to the fact that in adversity, her indomitable spirit shines through.
