Madness Guitarist Chris 'CB' Foreman Battles Incurable Myeloma, Aims for 2026 Stage Comeback
August 29, 2025
Madness guitarist Chris 'CB' Foreman announced he has incurable myeloma, a blood cancer, after experiencing severe pain during a June concert, and has been sharing his diagnosis and treatment journey on social media.
Foreman detailed his treatment, including MRI scans, radiotherapy, and spinal tap surgery, and expressed optimism about reaching remission and returning to the stage in 2026.
Madness, formed in North London in 1976, is a renowned British ska and pop band with hits like 'Our House' and 'It Must Be Love,' and has a long history of chart success and live performances.
Blood Cancer UK highlights that myeloma is often diagnosed late but is increasingly manageable, with some patients living over 20 years with the disease.
With over 28 million albums sold worldwide, Madness has been a significant part of Foreman’s life and career, contributing to the UK’s music scene since the 1980s.
He expressed gratitude for the support from his band, crew, and family, and shared that not performing with Madness in 2025 has been difficult for him.
The band recently performed at the Victorious Festival, and despite Foreman's health issues, Madness continues to schedule concerts across the UK.
Myeloma involves cancerous plasma cells in the bone marrow, affecting kidneys and immune function, and is more common in older adults, but treatments are improving.
Foreman, now 69, is managing his condition with treatments like radiotherapy and spinal tap surgery, and aims to be back on stage by 2026.
Foreman’s son Felix has publicly expressed love and encouragement for his father’s recovery, highlighting the personal side of his battle.
While Foreman has been unable to tour recently due to his treatment, Madness continues to perform live, with upcoming concerts scheduled across the UK.
Summary based on 18 sources
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Sources

Daily Mail • Aug 29, 2025
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Daily Mirror • Aug 29, 2025
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Metro • Aug 29, 2025
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Express.co.uk • Aug 29, 2025
Madness legend diagnosed with incurable cancer as fans rush to support him