Busted’s James Bourne had ‘a few years to live’ until ‘hero’ brother saved his life
James Bourne is ‘alive and kicking’ thanks to his brother (Getty Images)
James Bourne has said doctors warned him his condition was so serious he might only have a few more years to live before his youngest brother, Chris, donated a kidney, with the pair now recovering from surgery.
He prompted fans to head to his Spotify page, saying on X: “I’m still alive and kicking and it’s all thanks to my brother.”
In a health update shared in the bio section of his Spotify page, the Busted singer-songwriter and guitarist wrote: “My condition was serious and the doctors told me I had a few years left to live.”
Bourne, 43, said Chris had “saved my life yet again”, adding: “This time quite literally by donating me one of his kidneys.”
He told fans he is already feeling the difference, writing: “I can’t believe how much better I’m starting to feel already.”
Bourne added: “I’m still going to need some time, but I wanted you to know that we’re both recovering from surgery just fine. My brother is a hero.”
James Bourne health issues
Bourne’s statement followed a long period of concern among fans after he pulled out of the Busted vs McFly arena tour in September 2025, a day before it began, citing health problems. Chris stepped in to replace him on the run.
In April, Bourne said he needed “major surgery” that should “extend my life” and hopefully make him well enough to return to touring and making music.
Chris also shared a brief message on X, writing: “We did it brother.”
Chris told The Sun that he volunteered to be a donor “in the middle of the tour”, and said tests later showed he was a “near perfect match”, adding: “It was a no brainer for me.” The brothers underwent surgery earlier this month and are in a six-week recovery period.
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