British TV host Piers Morgan on Sunday strongly defended former US President Joe Biden after news broke of his prostate cancer diagnosis, calling out those who are mocking or making political points about the 82-year-old’s health.Taking to social media platform X, Morgan made it clear he would not tolerate the online ridicule that followed Biden’s medical update.“I’m going to block anyone I see – and there’s already a lot of this vile crap flying around – mocking, celebrating, or playing partisan politics with Joe Biden’s health news. The man has served his country for 50 years and is fighting for his life. Show some bloody respect,” he said in the post.
The response came shortly after Biden’s office confirmed on Sunday that the former President had been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Doctors discovered a small nodule in his prostate during a recent routine physical examination last week, which led to further tests. By Friday, the cancer was confirmed and found to have spread to his bones.A statement from Biden’s office noted that although the disease is aggressive, with a Gleason score of 9, it remains hormone-sensitive, which allows for effective treatment options.“The President and his family are reviewing treatment options with his physicians,” the statement added.Biden was reportedly seen at a Philadelphia hospital on Friday for additional tests. According to ABC News, a spokesperson confirmed Biden underwent a medical evaluation earlier in the week due to urinary symptoms.Biden’s health has often been a topic of public interest. Last year, while still in office, he had a lesion removed from his chest that was identified as basal cell carcinoma. His doctor at the time, Dr Kevin O’Connor, confirmed that all the cancerous tissue had been removed and no further treatment was required.Despite being declared “fit for duty” as recently as February 2024, Biden chose not to run for re-election, a decision many linked to ongoing concerns about his age and stamina.Morgan wasn’t alone in voicing support. Political figures from across the aisle, including Nancy Pelosi, Gavin Newsom, Hillary Clinton and Kamala Harris, expressed their best wishes. Republican leaders also showed solidarity, with Donald Trump issuing a message of sympathy: he said he was saddened by the news and extended his warmest wishes to Biden and his family.