‘I’VE CUT ALMOST ALL SUGAR OUT’: PAUL WHITEHOUSE, 68, REVEALS TYPE 2 DIABETES DIAGNOSIS IN CANDID HEALTH UPDATE

The Gone Fishing star has changed his diet and reduced his alcohol intake after discovering his blood sugar levels were too high. Co-star Bob Mortimer is also trying to improve his fitness as the beloved BBC series returns.

Paul Whitehouse has opened up about a significant change in his health, revealing that he has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and is now making changes to his lifestyle.

The 68-year-old comedian, best known for The Fast Show and Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing, shared the personal update ahead of the programme’s ninth series, explaining that the diagnosis had prompted him to rethink his eating habits and cut back on some of his favourite treats.

Whitehouse admitted that he had previously enjoyed chocolate, particularly Maltesers, but has now removed almost all sugar from his diet. He has also reduced his alcohol intake and confirmed that he has been prescribed medication to help manage the condition.

“I’ve cut almost all sugar out, and I’m also prescribed some medication for it,” he said, discussing the changes he has made since learning that his blood sugar levels were too high.

The comedian also acknowledged that his age and lifestyle may have played a role in the situation, describing the diagnosis as something he had not fully anticipated.

GIVING UP CHOCOLATE HAS BEEN NO EASY TASK

For longtime fans of Whitehouse, his love of chocolate will come as no surprise. His sweet tooth has even provided material for some of the affectionate teasing that defines his friendship with co-star Bob Mortimer.

Recalling one fishing trip, Mortimer joked about seeing Whitehouse searching for chocolate on top of the kitchen cabinets late at night.

Whitehouse remembered the incident with characteristic humour, explaining that he had been desperate for a sweet treat after a day spent fishing. When he discovered there was no chocolate in the house, he admitted that he became extremely frustrated.

Now, however, the comedian has had to make a substantial adjustment.

He revealed that he has stopped eating Maltesers and is limiting himself to small amounts of dark chocolate. Describing the experience in typically self-deprecating fashion, he joked that eating just two pieces of dark chocolate felt like “basically torture”.

Behind the laughter, the change marks a new chapter for the star as he learns to manage his diagnosis and follow the treatment prescribed to him.

Whitehouse has not suggested that diet alone will manage his condition. His update makes clear that medication is also part of his current approach.

BOB MORTIMER IS MAKING CHANGES OF HIS OWN

Whitehouse is not the only member of the much-loved television duo trying to take better care of his health.

Mortimer, 67, has also been working on his fitness, although his attempts to establish a regular gym routine have not gone entirely to plan.

The comedian revealed that he had signed up for a gym membership but injured his toe during his first visit. Whitehouse could not resist teasing his friend about his exercise ambitions.

Mortimer, however, insisted that he was still trying to stay active at home, using kettlebells and weights while watching television.

“I’ve got my kettlebells and weights at home, and I sit watching the telly doing exercises,” he explained, adding that he had genuinely been working on his fitness.

The exchange reflects the familiar dynamic that has helped make the pair such a popular television partnership. Even when discussing serious subjects, the two friends continue to find humour in each other’s experiences.

Yet their latest updates also reveal the health challenges they have faced over the years.

TWO COMEDIANS WHO KNOW THE IMPORTANCE OF LOOKING AFTER THEIR HEALTH

The pair’s health histories have long been part of the story behind Gone Fishing.

Mortimer underwent triple heart bypass surgery after doctors discovered serious blockages in his coronary arteries. Whitehouse was also diagnosed with coronary heart disease and had three stents fitted.

Their experiences helped inspire the BBC programme, which first aired in 2018 and follows the friends as they travel around the countryside in search of fish, good food and meaningful conversation.

Rather than focusing solely on the sport, the series offers viewers a relaxed look at friendship, ageing and the importance of spending time outdoors.

The programme has become known for its gentle humour and beautiful British landscapes, with the pair’s conversations often moving naturally between everyday subjects and more personal reflections.

Their latest health revelations add another layer to that familiar format. Whitehouse is adjusting to a new diagnosis, while Mortimer continues to navigate the effects of previous medical problems and other health concerns.

Both men have spoken candidly about the realities of getting older, but their friendship remains at the heart of the series.

AN EMOTIONAL NEW SERIES — AND A FINAL FAREWELL TO TED

The upcoming series also carries a bittersweet moment for fans of Gone Fishing.

Ted, the much-loved Patterdale terrier who regularly accompanied the duo on their fishing trips, died in April at the age of 13.

Owned by the programme’s executive producer Lisa Clark, Ted became a familiar presence on the show, joining the comedians as they explored rivers, lakes and the British countryside.

His appearances added another source of warmth and humour to the series. While Whitehouse concentrated on fishing and Mortimer prepared food, Ted often wandered around the riverbank, seemingly more interested in his own adventures than in the two television stars.

That independent personality became part of his charm, and both comedians have spoken fondly about their canine companion.

The new series includes one final appearance from Ted, allowing viewers to see him enjoying the outdoors once more. The episode is expected to be particularly moving for audiences who have followed his adventures over the years.

Mortimer described the opportunity to share one last fishing trip with Ted as a highlight, reflecting on the dog’s place in the programme’s history.

His absence will be felt by the show’s team and its loyal audience, but the final footage offers a lasting reminder of the simple moments that made him such a beloved part of the series.

FANS LOOK FORWARD TO THE DUO’S RETURN

Despite their health challenges, Whitehouse and Mortimer are returning with the same relaxed approach that has defined Gone Fishing since its debut.

The ninth series continues to celebrate the countryside, fishing and the pleasure of spending time with a close friend. Comedian and actor Reece Shearsmith also joins the pair during one of their trips.

For viewers, the programme’s appeal has never depended on dramatic twists or elaborate changes. Its warmth comes from the natural chemistry between two longtime friends who are comfortable sharing stories, joking with one another and reflecting on life as they travel.

Whitehouse’s diagnosis and Mortimer’s fitness efforts bring a more personal dimension to the new episodes. Their openness may also resonate with viewers who have faced unexpected changes in their own lives or had to reconsider familiar habits.

Whitehouse’s decision to cut back on sugar and alcohol is a reminder of how a new diagnosis can prompt someone to reassess everyday routines. With prescribed medication and lifestyle changes now part of his approach, the comedian is adapting while continuing to work on a programme he clearly enjoys.

As the friends return to the riverbank, their latest adventures promise the familiar humour and companionship that audiences have come to love — alongside a poignant farewell to Ted.

Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing returns to BBC Two on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at 9 p.m.