Davina McCall says memory loss after brain surgery was like 'advanced Alzheimer's'

Television presenter Davina McCall has shared her experience of severe memory loss that followed her brain surgery, likening her symptoms to "advanced Alzheimer's."

During an appearance on Paloma Faith's podcast, Mad, Sad and Bad, the 58-year-old McCall detailed her struggles with memory following the removal of a benign brain tumor in 2024.

"After I'd had my brain tumor taken out, I had advanced Alzheimer's, so I couldn't remember anything," McCall explained to singer and Celebrity Traitors star Faith.

She recounted emerging from the surgery without any knowledge of having undergone the operation. "There was one regular staff member who would ask me daily if I could recall their name, and I would respond, 'I don't know.'"

The Masked Singer judge underwent the procedure in November 2024 after a colloid cyst was discovered during a routine health check associated with her menopause advocacy efforts.

In November of the previous year, she disclosed that she had also undergone surgery to treat breast cancer. McCall described 2025 as the "hardest year" for her and her partner.

Reflecting on her recovery from the brain surgery, she shared, "Michael would visit me in the hospital for two hours, and every time he left for the restroom and returned, I was shocked to see him, as I had no recollection of his earlier presence."

"I was unable to watch movies for six months because I couldn't remember what had happened just 15 minutes prior. When I attempted to read a book, I couldn't recall what I had read on the previous page."

For the first time since the surgery, she noted that a year later, she woke up with memories of the previous day's events.

According to the NHS, later-stage symptoms of Alzheimer's disease encompass "significant problems with short and long-term memory." Alzheimer’s is a progressive ailment, with symptoms typically worsening over time.

In contrast, after brain surgery, cognitive challenges are often most pronounced in the initial recovery period before stabilizing and potentially improving over the following weeks and months. Some individuals may experience lingering, milder changes.

McCall expressed her belief in the efficacy of music therapy for recovery from brain injuries, stating that her singing lessons ultimately contributed to her healing.

In April 2025, following MRI scans, McCall was informed that her tumor was "not coming back."

Although a benign tumor is not cancerous, such cysts are known for their gradual growth, per the Brainstrust charity. Non-cancerous brain tumors are more frequently observed in individuals over the age of 50, with common symptoms including headaches, vision issues, and drowsiness, according to the NHS.

McCall's surgical procedure, known as a craniotomy, entailed the removal of a section of her skull to access and excise the tumor. She has openly discussed her surgery and recovery journey, including on her own podcast, Begin Again.