Hunter Biden on Friday provided a somber update on his father, former President Joe Biden's, health, stating that his prostate cancer has worsened and is now causing significant pain. Speaking in an interview with the BBC, Hunter Biden disclosed that the cancer has metastasized beyond previous public announcements, spreading further into his father’s bones.
"The cancer has spread, metastasized into his bones and further. It’s very painful and it’s very debilitating in many respects." — Hunter Biden, Son of Former President Joe Biden
Former President Biden, 83, publicly announced his diagnosis of stage four prostate cancer in May 2025. At that time, his office confirmed the aggressive nature of the cancer and its spread to his bones. This diagnosis came months after his departure from the White House, marking the end of a tumultuous political career. Concerns about his age and fitness for office had intensified during the 2024 presidential debate, ultimately leading to his withdrawal from the race, as reported by the Daily Mail. His performance during those debates fueled widespread speculation about his ability to serve another four years, contributing to the decision to step aside.
Hunter Biden elaborated on the severity of his father’s condition during the BBC discussion, offering a stark assessment of the former President's ongoing battle. "The cancer has spread, metastasized into his bones and further," he stated, detailing the progression of the disease. He added, "It’s very painful and it’s very debilitating in many respects," underscoring the profound physical challenges his father is enduring daily.
Despite the advanced stage and debilitating nature of his illness, former President Biden has maintained a degree of public activity. In late June, he appeared alongside Maryland Democrats at the party’s "Fight Back and Win" gala near Baltimore, engaging with supporters and party officials. Earlier that month, he also attended the opening of the new Obama library in Chicago, participating in a significant public event alongside other prominent political figures. Hunter Biden noted his father's remarkable resilience and determination in the face of his severe health issues. "He’s still doing his thing," Hunter Biden said, emphasizing his father's unwavering commitment, "He so believes in this country." This suggests a deep-seated conviction that continues to drive the former President, even as his physical health declines.
The younger Biden also conveyed the emotional toll of witnessing his father's struggle, providing a glimpse into the personal impact of the illness on the family. "It’s really sad to watch," he commented, reflecting on the difficulty of seeing a loved one battle such a severe disease. He further expressed a desire for his father to be more vocal about his discomfort, suggesting that the former President often downplays his pain and struggles to those around him. "The only thing that I’d say about my dad, about his health right now, is I wish he would complain more, because it’s not good," Hunter Biden revealed, highlighting the tendency of many patients to internalize their suffering.
Since leaving office, former President Biden has largely kept a lower public profile, though he has continued to participate in select political and public engagements that align with his interests and legacy. He is also currently working on a memoir titled “Promise Me, America,” which is anticipated for release after the 2026 midterm elections, indicating his continued intellectual and public engagement. Meanwhile, Hunter Biden himself has adopted a more prominent public presence in recent months, frequently posting on X and publicly defending his father’s legacy and record in office.
These latest remarks by Hunter Biden offer a stark and detailed update on the former President's health, confirming his ongoing battle with an advanced and painful form of cancer that imposes significant physical limitations. The update underscores the personal challenges faced by the Biden family as the former President navigates a severe health condition, while still attempting to remain engaged in public life. The Associated Press also reported on these developments, noting that former U.S. President Joe Biden’s prostate cancer has spread to other parts of his body and is causing him pain, even as he continues to speak out on public issues, citing Hunter Biden’s interview.
