TV icon and campaigner Esther Rantzen with her daughter Rebecca Wilcox, who has revealed Dame Esther’s cancer drug has stopped working – Renewed calls for assisted dying law.
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TV icon and campaigner Esther Rantzen no longer responding to latest medication, daughter reveals – Renewed calls for assisted dying law.
Dame Esther Rantzen, the beloved face of British television and tireless champion for children’s rights, is no longer responding to her latest cancer treatment, her daughter has revealed.
The 83-year-old presenter, best known for founding Childline and fronting That’s Life!, was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer in January 2023. Since then, she’s faced her illness with the same dignity and defiant spirit that made her a national treasure.
But now, a new and hopeful line of treatment appears to have reached its limit.
Speaking to 5 News on Thursday, March 27, Dame Esther’s daughter, journalist Rebecca Wilcox, offered a sobering update:
‘I really wish that was true, but I don’t think that’s the case anymore.’
The comment came after questions were raised about whether the new medication Esther had been trialling was still showing positive results.
Fighting for the right to choose
Esther has not shied away from the reality of her condition. In fact, she’s used her diagnosis to launch a heartfelt campaign in support of legalising assisted dying in the UK.
A firm believer in dignity at the end of life, she’s openly discussed her plans to potentially travel to Switzerland, where assisted dying is legal, and where the organisation Dignitas offers end-of-life support.
“Like many others, I want the right to choose how and when I die,” she told the Daily Mail in a previous interview.
Her stance has sparked national debate – and brought emotional weight to the ongoing discussion around the Assisted Dying Bill currently before Parliament.
Public outpouring of support
Despite the latest medical setback, support for Esther continues to pour in from fans, friends, and fellow campaigners.
Known for her warmth, wit, and unwavering advocacy, for many, she’s a voice for those who’ve never had one.
Dame Esther Rantzen’s lasting legacy
Whatever comes next, Dame Esther’s legacy is beyond question.
From championing children’s welfare to raising awareness on end-of-life rights, she’s remained fearlessly outspoken and unflinchingly honest – even when facing the hardest fight of all.
As the debate around assisted dying heats up, Esther’s voice remains one of the most powerful in the room.
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