Wilko Johnson, Dr Feelgood guitarist, breaks the news to his fans on Facebook

Jan 11, 2013 07:21 GMT  ·  By
Musician and actor Wilko Johnson has been diagnosed with terminal cancer, will not undergo chemo
   Musician and actor Wilko Johnson has been diagnosed with terminal cancer, will not undergo chemo

Wilko Johnson, Dr Feelgood guitarist and songwriter, and star of HBO’s hit series “Game of Thrones,” has been diagnosed with terminal cancer, his manager announces on the star’s Facebook page. He will not undergo treatment.

The post has shocked fans but, at the same time, inspired an incredible wave of compassion and well wishes for the actor and musician, who chooses to live the remainder of his life with courage.

Perhaps even more striking is that he will continue touring with his band, as a farewell to all the fans who have supported him throughout his career.

“I am very sad to announce that Wilko has recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer of the pancreas. He has chosen not to receive any chemotherapy,” Johnson’s manager writes.

“He is currently in good spirits, is not yet suffering any physical effects and can expect to enjoy at least another few months of reasonable health and activity,” he adds.

Johnson is now in Japan on a promo tour and will hit the studio to record a new album afterwards.

Also as a sign of gratitude to fans, he will then embark on a short farewell tour, with appearances booked in France and the UK.

“There is also a live DVD in the pipeline, filmed on the last UK tour,” Johnson’s manager notes.

“Wilko wishes to offer his sincere thanks for all the support he has had over his long career, from those who have worked with him to, above all, those devoted fans and admirers who have attended his live gigs, bought his recordings and generally made his life such an extraordinarily full and eventful experience,” the manager adds.

Johnson is 65 years old, is a widower and has one son. He is mostly known for his music accomplishments, but went mainstream in recent years thanks to his debut role on “Game of Thrones” as Ilyn Payne, the mute executioner.