Veteran broadcaster Jon Snow has said he “clings onto” lucid moments since being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
The 78-year-old shared his diagnosis last week, revealing that he has been living with the disease since 2023 and admitting he was initially hesitant to seek medical advice, convinced there was nothing amiss.
Snow will explore the realities of living with the condition, while continuing to work as one of the country’s leading journalists, in a documentary set to air on Channel 4 later this month.
The film, titled Jon Snow: A Last Big Story, will follow the broadcaster and journalist as he attends medical appointments and travels to Zambia to report on an environmental disaster.
In a to-camera interview, reported by The Times, Snow says was tempted to shut himself away when he received the diagnosis.
“Any sort of hint of mental decay, you’re sort of dead,” he says, adding: “There are moments when it pops up but it’s not an all day, every day condition, and that’s what I cling onto.”
Speaking to the Daily Mail last week, Snow said he sometimes feels so well that he questions his diagnosis.
The broadcaster explained: “I mean sometimes I doubt whether I’ve really got it. I don’t know if it’s widespread knowledge. I don’t feel disabled in any way.”
He also revealed he is involved in a clinical trial for the condition.
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The NHS says Alzheimer’s – the most common form of dementia – is characterised by the progressive decline of brain function, impacting memory, cognitive skills, and other mental faculties.
The Alzheimer’s Society, which worked on the documentary with Snow and his team at Channel 4, has praised his decision to go public with his diagnosis.
Its chief executive Michelle Dyson said: “Jon’s decision to talk publicly about his dementia diagnosis is a real act of courage and his story will resonate with so many. Alongside his wife Precious, Jon is shining a light on the need for faster, fairer access to diagnosis.
“An early diagnosis can unlock vital support, help families plan ahead and potentially open the door to participation in clinical trials. Yet too many people across the country are still waiting far too long for a diagnosis.”
After sharing his health news, Snow said he was “truly bowled over” by the public outpouring of support.
He said: “As a journalist, you never expect to become the story, but it’s heartening to know that sharing my experience has contributed to a surge in visits to Alzheimer’s Society’s website, with people seeking information, support and ways to get involved in the fight against dementia.
“Receiving a dementia diagnosis can turn your world upside down, but I really do believe it’s better to know.”
Jon Snow: A Last Big Story will air on Channel 4 at 8pm on Saturday 20 June.
