Big Brother star diagnosed with motor neurone disease
Former contestant reveals news during reunion in London
Last updated 9 hours ago
Jon Tickle, known for his appearance on the fourth series of Big Brother in 2003, has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND), according to fellow contestant Ray Shah.
Shah revealed the news on Instagram as he shared photos from a reunion of the show’s cast in London over the weekend, more than 20 years after their time on the reality TV programme.
While celebrating the gathering, Shah expressed that the reunion had a bittersweet tone due to Tickle's diagnosis with the neurological condition.
MND is characterized by progressively worsening muscle weakness, including symptoms such as stiff or weak hands, feet, and legs, alongside spasms and muscle cramps, as explained by the NHS.
There is currently no cure for MND, and it is often life-shortening.
Ray Shah, 48, shared: “It has taken us 23 years, but we finally got to have a big brother reunion with most of the gang.”
He added: “There’s a touch of sadness to it though as Jon Tickle was diagnosed with motor neuron disease a few months ago. But fair play to Sissy, she helped get us all together.”
The reunion included a meet-up at a pub, accompanied by photos of Shah, Tickle, and Joanne “Sissy” Rooney, along with fellow Big Brother stars Annuszka “Nush” Nowak, Federico Martone, and Justine Sellman, who cherished the moment, commenting: “Omg it was such a magical night seeing everyone again!”
Tickle, born in Norwich and now 52, rose to fame on Big Brother before pursuing a career in television presenting, including his role on the science-based show Brainiac.
During his time on Big Brother, he was initially evicted on day 29 but re-entered the house following a public vote.