Danny John-Jules, the iconic actor best known for his roles in Red Dwarf and Death in Paradise, has become a prominent voice in raising awareness about prostate cancer, particularly within the Black community. His journey from initial unawareness to passionate advocacy highlights the critical need for open conversations and proactive health measures. This article explores Danny John-Jules’s impactful work with Prostate Cancer UK and his dedication to breaking stigmas surrounding this disease.
Before becoming involved with the Stronger Knowing More campaign, Danny John-Jules, like many, was unaware of the disproportionately higher risk of prostate cancer faced by Black men. He openly admits, “Not in the slightest!” His introduction to the cause came through Benjamin Zephaniah, a fellow Stronger Knowing More ambassador, whose candid discussions challenged traditional stigmas within the Rastafarian community and beyond.
“He’s a Rastafarian talking about stuff that Rastas don’t usually talk about. He kind of broke the stigma,” Danny explained, emphasizing the importance of Zephaniah’s role in initiating conversations within the Black community.
However, it was hearing a prostate cancer survivor’s personal story at the Stronger Knowing More launch event that truly resonated with Danny. This powerful moment served as a “rude awakening” for everyone present, underscoring the urgent need for greater awareness. Despite prostate cancer being treatable when detected early, awareness levels within Black communities remained alarmingly low.
Since that pivotal moment, Actor Danny John-jules has embraced unconventional methods to amplify his message. His participation in ITV’s The Real Full Monty saw him stripping and dancing on national television to raise awareness – a bold move that significantly boosted public attention. He recalls the overwhelming response: “It was a great laugh, and the night it aired, your website crashed because people wanted more information.” The show’s BAFTA nomination further amplified the cause, and it was during this event that Danny’s advocacy intersected with his entertainment career in an unexpected way.
Meeting a Strictly Come Dancing producer on the BAFTA red carpet opened another door for actor danny john-jules to reach a wider audience, demonstrating how his commitment to prostate cancer awareness permeated various aspects of his life.
Beyond television screens, Danny John-Jules took his advocacy to the road – or rather, to two wheels. Teaming up with his friend Steve Keys, he embarked on a motorbike journey across the Caribbean for their show Two Wheels One Love. This adventure was particularly meaningful as it connected him with his Caribbean heritage, filming in Guadeloupe, where Death in Paradise was filmed, and Dominica, his parents’ homeland.
“We decided to do Two Wheels One Love and ride around both countries speaking to men and raising awareness of prostate cancer,” Danny shared.
This personal connection allowed him to engage with men in these communities directly, leading to open conversations and revelations. He discovered that prostate cancer was not a distant issue but a reality for many, with some sharing their own diagnoses or experiences of loved ones affected by the disease. Even within the Death in Paradise production team, a French-speaking producer revealed his own prostate cancer diagnosis, highlighting the pervasive nature of the disease.
Back in the UK, Danny recognizes the gradual shift in public consciousness, often spurred by high-profile figures sharing their experiences. He points to Bill Turnbull, a familiar face on British television, as an example of someone whose public battle with prostate cancer prompted men to pay closer attention.
“Someone who used to be on the TV every day is so familiar to us – like a family member. That’s when men take a reality check and stop suffering in silence,” Danny observes.
Danny John-Jules emphasizes that continued awareness efforts are not just for the present generation but also for the future. He speaks about his 12-year-old son’s understanding of prostate cancer, demonstrating how these crucial conversations are becoming normalized within families. By raising awareness and funds, actor danny john-jules is contributing to a future where better diagnostic tools and treatments are available for his son’s generation and beyond.
For Black men over 45, especially those with a family history of prostate cancer, Danny John-Jules has a clear and direct message: get informed about the PSA blood test. He demystifies the process, emphasizing its simplicity.
“On the whole, it will start and end with the blood test unless something is seen to indicate there is a problem. It’s pretty simple. So my advice would be: go and speak to your GP about whether the PSA blood test is right for you.”
Danny John-Jules’s journey from actor to advocate underscores the power of celebrity voices in driving crucial health conversations. His dedication to raising prostate cancer awareness, particularly within the Black community, is making a tangible difference, encouraging men to take proactive steps for their health and breaking down long-standing stigmas.
