Vine Opens Up About Paxman’s Struggle

Jeremy Vine expressed his sympathy for former Newsnight co-host Jeremy Paxman, who is battling Parkinson's disease. After losing his father to the same illness in 2018, Vine shared his desire to reconnect with Paxman, saying, "I feel deeply for him." He also reminisced about their time on Newsnight, adding, "I have nothing but good memories."

Vine also praised Paxman for his work ethic, recalling how his former co-host would dedicate entire days to crafting a single question, including his memorable 1989 remark to the German ambassador: “Well, it’s not been a very good century, has it?” Vine likened Paxman’s approach to that of a goal scorer in a football match — quiet for much of the game but always capable of delivering a dramatic, impactful moment when it mattered most.

Paxman revealed his Parkinson’s diagnosis in May 2021, shortly after stepping down from his long-running role as the host of University Challenge. He explained that the diagnosis came after a fall while walking his dog, during which his doctor noticed a facial expression characteristic of Parkinson’s, often referred to as a "Parkinson’s mask," in addition to other subtle symptoms.

Reflecting on the moment of his diagnosis, Paxman admitted, “It was totally unexpected. I was simply walking through the square when I found myself sitting on a bench after falling and injuring my face.” He revealed that it was a doctor who had been watching him on University Challenge who first noticed the early warning signs of the disease. “I wasn’t as animated or expressive as I usually am. I had no idea at the time.”

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive condition that affects the brain, gradually impairing movement and causing symptoms such as tremors, muscle stiffness, and slower movement.

In a poignant interview last year, Paxman opened up about the emotional toll of living with Parkinson’s, stating that the disease often leaves him feeling like he “wished he hadn’t been born.” His powerful words were part of a plea for increased support from the government for those living with the disease, highlighting the need for better care and resources for people affected by Parkinson's.

Vine’s support for his former co-host is a touching reminder of the close bond that was formed during their time on Newsnight, and of the ongoing battle that many face against this debilitating illness.