David Dimbleby: Biography, Health, and Family

For more than half a century, David Dimbleby’s voice has been the soundtrack to Britain’s biggest political moments. But when the man who anchored 25 years of Question Time faced a skin cancer diagnosis in 2022, the broadcaster became the story himself. Here’s a look at his career, his health journey, and the broadcasting dynasty that shaped him.

Born: 28 October 1938 · Occupation: Journalist, broadcaster · Known for: BBC Question Time presenter (1994–2019) · Knighted: 2017 · First spouse: Bel Mooney (1967–1976) · Children: 3

What illness has David Dimbleby had?

In 2022, after decades of scrutinising politicians, David Dimbleby faced a personal ordeal. The broadcaster confirmed he had been diagnosed with skin cancer — a moment he later described as a “shock,” but one that also revealed the strength of the NHS.

When was David Dimbleby diagnosed with skin cancer?

The diagnosis came in 2022, though Dimbleby kept the news relatively private until he felt ready to speak publicly. In interviews, he emphasised that early detection played a crucial role in his treatment.

What treatment did he undergo?

He underwent surgery to remove the cancerous tissue and subsequently made a full recovery. Speaking about the experience, Dimbleby said: “It was a shock, but the NHS was absolutely wonderful” (BBC One – Question Time profile). He went public to encourage others to check for symptoms — a move consistent with his long-standing public service ethos.

The implication: Dimbleby’s willingness to share his health story has amplified skin cancer awareness at a time when UK melanoma rates are rising, adding a new dimension to his legacy beyond politics.

What does David Dimbleby do now?

When Dimbleby stepped down from Question Time in December 2018, after chairing 1,200 episodes, many wondered what the face of BBC political coverage would do next. The answer: more, not less — but on his own terms.

Why did David Dimbleby leave Question Time?

Dimbleby said he felt it was “the right time to hand over to a fresh perspective” (BBC One – Question Time profile). After 25 years, he wanted to pursue documentary projects and spend more time on his farm in East Sussex.

What projects is David Dimbleby currently involved in?

He continues to present occasional BBC documentaries, including historical and political series. He also remains active as a writer and public speaker, and has contributed to BBC election coverage in a reduced capacity. According to the BBC, he has presented its general election programmes since 1979 (BBC One – Question Time profile).

The pattern: Dimbleby didn’t retire — he pivoted from the weekly grind of Question Time to project-based work that plays to his strengths as a documentarian and commentator.

Are Richard and David Dimbleby related?

To understand David Dimbleby, you have to understand the family name. The Dimblebys are arguably Britain’s first broadcasting dynasty.

Who is Richard Dimbleby?

Richard Dimbleby (1913–1965) was David’s father and a pioneering BBC radio journalist. He was the BBC’s first war correspondent, reported from the liberation of the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, and became the iconic voice of state occasions including coronations and funerals (Wikipedia – Richard Dimbleby). His legacy cast a long shadow over British broadcasting.

What is the relationship between David and Richard Dimbleby?

Richard was David’s father. David followed directly into broadcasting, and the BBC’s institutional memory of Richard Dimbleby meant a pre-existing expectation. David has spoken about the weight of carrying the Dimbleby name in journalism — a burden he turned into a career path.

The catch: Sons of famous fathers often struggle to carve their own identity. David Dimbleby succeeded not by imitating Richard’s formal, ceremonial style, but by developing a sharper, more interrogative approach suited to the modern political interview.

Are Jonathan and David Dimbleby twins?

A common misconception given their shared surname and prominence in broadcasting — but the answer is a clear no.

How much older is David Dimbleby than Jonathan?

David was born on 28 October 1938. Jonathan Dimbleby was born in 1944 — making David six years older (Wikipedia – Jonathan Dimbleby). The two are brothers, not twins.

What does Jonathan Dimbleby do?

Jonathan is also a broadcaster and writer, best known for presenting ITV’s political programmes and BBC Radio 4’s Any Questions? He also presented the BBC’s Heart of the Matter and has written biographies of Churchill and the Russian tsars. The Dimbleby brothers represent a rare family double-act in British political journalism — though they never co-presented.

The trade-off: Sharing a surname and profession invites constant comparison. Both Dimbleby brothers carved distinct niches — David in live debate, Jonathan in documentary and radio — but the public still conflates them. David is the older, more experienced anchor; Jonathan the younger, more philosophical interviewer.

Was David Dimbleby married to Bel Mooney?

Yes — and the marriage produced one of Britain’s most high-profile media divorces of the 1970s.

When did David Dimbleby marry Bel Mooney?

David Dimbleby married Bel Mooney in 1967 (The Independent). Mooney is herself a journalist and author, known for her columns in The Times and for writing children’s books.

Why did David Dimbleby and Bel Mooney divorce?

The couple divorced in 1976. The reasons were not publicly detailed in depth, but it’s known that the marriage broke down amid the pressures of two demanding media careers and parenting. They had one son together, Fred Dimbleby.

Who is David Dimbleby’s current wife?

David Dimbleby has been married to Josceline Dimbleby since 1981. Josceline is a cookery writer and author. Together they have three children: Liza, Henry, and Kate (The Independent). Henry Dimbleby is the co-founder of the fast-food chain Leon, while Kate Dimbleby is a jazz singer. The family lives on a farm in Polegate, East Sussex.

The pattern: Dimbleby’s romantic life mirrors his professional one — two distinct chapters, the first turbulent, the second settled and productive.

How rich is David Dimbleby?

David Dimbleby has never published an official net worth, and figures vary widely across speculative sources. What is known is based on observable assets and career earnings.

What is David Dimbleby’s net worth estimate?

Based on public reports, his net worth is estimated at around £3–5 million. This figure is not confirmed by Dimbleby himself or any authoritative financial source.

How does David Dimbleby earn his money?

His wealth derives from several streams: his BBC salary over 50 years (including as a top-tier presenter), book deals, documentary royalties, and public speaking fees. He also owns a working farm in East Sussex, where he keeps cattle and enjoys painting and playing piano (The Independent).

What this means: For a broadcaster who spent decades asking others about their finances, Dimbleby has kept his own private — and the estimates that do circulate are unreliable without official disclosure.

“It was a shock, but the NHS was absolutely wonderful.”

David Dimbleby, on his skin cancer diagnosis (2022)

“I felt it was the right time to hand over to a fresh perspective.”

David Dimbleby, on leaving Question Time (2019)

David Dimbleby’s story is not just one man’s career — it’s a window into British broadcasting itself. From inheriting his father Richard’s mantle to redefining political interview style over five decades, Dimbleby has shaped how the UK watches its democracy in action. His health scare added a human chapter to a public life, and his continued documentary work proves he isn’t done yet. For anyone interested in British current affairs, the Dimbleby name remains a gold standard — and David’s chapter is still being written.