Russell Watson feared he 'wouldn't wake up' after second brain tumour diagnosis

World-famous tenor Russell Watson has revealed the stark warning he received from medical professionals following his battle with a brain tumour.

In 2006, Russell's thriving career as a tenor was abruptly interrupted when he started experiencing "terrible headaches" and a "deterioration" of his vision. His fears were confirmed when he was diagnosed with a brain tumour, reports The Mirror.

Despite successful surgery to remove the benign tumour in 2006, the 55-year-old was dealt another blow the following year when another tumour was discovered on his brain. This time, Russell confessed that he was scared he wouldn't "going to wake up" from the operation.

However, after enduring a second round of treatment, he felt rejuvenated and was eager to return to the recording studio. But doctors issued a sobering warning.

He told The Guardian: "After surgery, I was told that, even healthy and fit, I would no longer perform like my younger self – something that I refused to accept."

Undeterred by the ordeal, he continued his musical journey and asserted that his voice had never been better. The dad-of-two added:"I may not be the wagging-tailed puppy-dog any more, but my voice is in the best shape it's been in, and I think I look in pretty good shape as well".

Reflecting on his life, he added: "My life has been this cacophony of incredible highs and disastrous lows, but it's made me the person I am today."

According to the NHS, those suffering with a brain tumour can have a number of symptoms depending on the part of the brain that is affected. Some of the most common symptoms include headaches, seizures (fits), persistently feeling sick, being sick and drowsiness.

Following his harrowing health ordeal, Russell's career has soared with nine additional albums and numerous UK tours. Beyond his musical endeavours, he has also taken on acting roles, including a nationwide tour of the popular American musical, Chicago in 2022, where he portrayed Billy Flynn.

In addition to his performing arts career, Russell has become a familiar face on television in recent years, participating in I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! in 2020 and appearing in a celebrity special of The Chase a year later.

It comes after he announced a UK tour to celebrate 25 years since the release of his debut album, The Voice. The Cheshire-based singer, who has become one of the UK's most accomplished classical recording artists, plans to perform at 25 venues nationwide in October and November in 2025.

The tour will feature some of his most famous tracks and favourite pieces, both old and new. Fans can expect to hear classics such as Va, pensiero, Nessun Dorma, Caruso, Where My Heart Will Take Me (from Star Trek: Enterprise), and his new songs, Shine and Grow.