Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay recently revealed he underwent surgery to remove basal cell carcinoma from his face, sharing his experience with over 19 million followers on Instagram. The announcement comes as he prepares for the premiere of Season 15 of his cooking competition series, set to air on May 21, 2024.
In his post, Ramsay expressed gratitude to the medical team at The Skin Associates for their prompt action. He shared two images: one featuring a bandage on the side of his jaw and another displaying stitches from the procedure. “Grateful and so appreciative for the incredible team at The Skin Associates and their fast reactive work on removing this Basal Cell Carcinoma thank you!” he wrote.
Ramsay, 58, took the opportunity to raise awareness about skin cancer prevention. He urged fans, “Please don’t forget your sunscreen this weekend,” humorously adding, “I promise you it’s not a facelift! I’d need a refund…”
According to the Mayo Clinic, basal cell carcinoma is often characterized by a white waxy lump or a brown scaly patch, primarily appearing on sun-exposed areas such as the face and neck. Preventative measures include limiting sun exposure and regularly applying sunscreen.
Fans responded enthusiastically to Ramsay’s candidness, praising him for his positive attitude despite the health challenge. One follower commented, “Glad to hear you’re doing well, Gordon, and thanks for raising awareness of how important it is to stay safe in the sun.” Another added, “Heal quickly, Chef, and thank you for bringing awareness to all of us.”
This health scare is not the first for Ramsay. In the previous year, he experienced a severe bike accident that resulted in significant injuries. In an interview with Men’s Health UK, he detailed how he lost control of his bike after hitting a pothole, which sent him flying and left him with blurred vision and a split helmet.
Ramsay described that incident as harrowing, noting he struggled to perform basic tasks in the aftermath. “I couldn’t even put my f—ing socks and pants on,” he said. “Justin [his assistant] used to dress me in the morning. I felt like a f—ing 95-year-old man.”
He later addressed his followers about the importance of safety on the roads, stating, “Honestly, I’m lucky to be here. From those incredible trauma surgeons, doctors, and nurses in the hospital who looked after me this week, they were amazing, but honestly, you’ve got to wear a helmet.”
As Ramsay continues to navigate these health challenges, he remains a beloved figure in the culinary world, known for his engaging television presence in shows like “Kitchen Nightmares” and “Hell’s Kitchen.” His commitment to raising awareness about health and safety resonates with many, as he encourages fans to prioritize their well-being.
