‘You’re an inspiration’ – Fans rally behind Chris Kamara as legendary presenter is forced to pull out of TV gig

Fans have rallied around Chris Kamara after the broadcasting favourite was forced to pull out of a TV presenting gig.

The Middlesbrough-born presenter was diagnosed with an underactive thyroid in 2021 and stepped back from broadcasting due to the issue.

He then revealed in March 2022 that he had been diagnosed with Apraxia of Speech (AOS), having shown symptoms of the condition back in 2020.

Apraxia is a neurological condition that affects the body’s ability to perform its natural motor functions, most commonly the function of speech which can be delayed, slurred or unclear in delivery.

Kamara was due to present UK’s Strongest Man this week but revealed on social media that he’ll no longer be doing so.

He tweeted: “Due to my ongoing speech problems I have reluctantly pulled out of presenting this year’s UK’s Strongest Man.

“The show will be in Nottingham this weekend. If you fancy? Please go along – it’s spectacular.”

Kamara has previously spoken about the insecurities that come with his condition, saying on The Diary Of A CEO Podcast: “[It’s] strange in terms of I feel a fraud now in terms of broadcasting – I don’t bring to the table what I used to. So that’s hard.

“I feel I’m doing these programmes and they’re not getting the best of me, but they’re tolerating me. That’s how it feels.

“My life away from the screen couldn’t be any better – grandkids, family, it’s perfect.”

While Middlesbrough supporters offered him a huge show of support after that interview, fans have taken to Twitter once again to share their support with the Sky Sports legend.

One fan wrote: “You’re a superstar Kammy, keep going you’ve got this.”

Another said: “Kammy, you are a legend of a man. So much so that I don’t think that I’ve ever come across any one person who is so universally loved and who transcends generations. My dad loves you, I love you and my son loves you.”

A third wrote: We love you Kammy, hope to see you back soon.”

While another added: “Stay strong Kammy, you’re an inspiration and an absolute legend! We’re all behind you mate.”