The BBC star shared a written piece on Substack titled New Year, Old Tumour, in which he spoke about his health scare.
Describing it as one of the “hardest moments of his life”, he initially chose to keep the operation secret.
He also spoke about his fear around sharing the news and his surgery experience.
BBC star Reggie Yates reveals tumour diagnosis and surgery story
Speaking about the New Year on his post, Reggie wrote: “My partner encouraged me to make a list her coach had prompted her to complete; a page made up of the things she should be proud of from the past twelve months.
I got to the third item on my list and stopped.
“My pen had scribbled something I’d totally forgot. Or had I? In 2025, I’d endured one of the hardest moments of my adult life and overcome it. But for some reason, I’d chosen to bury it.
“Not forget it, hide it. Tell no one, and file it away as ‘a thing that happened’.
“Call it repression or dissociative amnesia, I felt pride for overcoming the gut punch, but given its scale, I’d chosen to heal, move on and ignore the scar.”
He later revealed that he endured a “fun week” of waiting to find out whether his tumour was benign or cancerous, and also spoke about his experience with surgery.
“It’s like being forced to attend a party you’d never choose,” the 42-year-old wrote.
“The food’s crap, you hate your outfit and the company literally put you to sleep.
“When you finally make it to theatre, you’re surrounded by silent strangers in masks and hair nets.
“They clang metal tools, you pretend everything’s fine and before you know it… injection, icy liquid in your veins, then comes that countdown from ten that you’ll never complete… but everything’s… fine.”
Friends support BBC star Reggie Yates after tumour reveal
Reggie has since shared the story on his social media, to which fans and friends have sent their messages of support.
Singer Paloma Faith wrote: “Wow sending love …. Had no idea this was happening but we are all rooting for you to have a swift recovery.”
Actress Hannah Walters said: “Sending much love and healing energy.”
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Fellow actress Zawe Ashton added: “Angel, I’ll read, had no idea. Thinking of you – truly hope you’re okay.”
Author Reggie Nelson replied: “‘This year, I encourage you to leave the promises behind and celebrate the battles won’.
“Very kind reminder, hope you’re well.”
