Veteran broadcaster Derryn Hinch, 81, makes heartbreaking health confession – as he reveals how much time he has left to live

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Derryn Hinch has shared details about his recent health struggles, explaining that he’s had several painful falls over the past year and now relies on a walker to get around.

The 81-year-old broadcaster appeared sad and weak during an interview on A Current Affair Monday night, where he talked about his health problems as he gets older.

Hinch confessed that he’s become so weak that he keeps falling, even while using his walker – which he lovingly calls Johnny – for support.

Hinch reported falling 30 times in the past year, sometimes even when she’s holding onto someone for support. She described unexpectedly falling and landing on the floor.

He recently fell and was stuck outside all night before anyone could help him. This led to a three-week hospital stay.

The ordeal, he said, has left his body struggling to recover.

I had no idea I’d broken two ribs. I was just stuck lying there, completely unable to move. I couldn’t even reach for a blanket, and I felt totally helpless.

Despite the grim reality of his condition, Hinch managed a flash of his trademark dark humour. 

He pointed to a chair on his balcony and, with a dark joke, said it was the perfect spot to… well, to pass away. He quickly clarified he just meant sitting there, watching the clouds. It was a chilling moment, like he was saying his final goodbyes – ‘Good night, nurse,’ he said, then, softly, ‘Goodbye, world.’ It really stuck with me, how calmly he said it all.

The former senator has been dealing with several health issues for years. 

He’d been struggling with health issues for a while. A previous fall caused a serious leg infection that swelled up badly, and last Christmas, an accident left him with two black eyes and needing a walker to get around.

In addition to his injuries, he’s faced a number of major health issues, including melanoma on his face that needed several radiation treatments, a dangerous blood infection, and a procedure last December to fix an abnormal heartbeat with an electric shock.

Honestly, looking back, it was just reckless. I really overdid it with the alcohol for years. I actually told Channel Ten that myself. It turns out all that drinking caught up with me – I’ve been diagnosed with advanced cirrhosis, and it’s a direct result of my past habits.

I received criticism for my habit of sometimes enjoying a glass of white wine with ice or frozen grapes.

‘I thought if I have five more years to live I want to live them well and enjoy my life.’

Despite his declining health, Hinch continues to express gratitude for the wonderful life he’s had.

I’ve lived a truly amazing life and have earned my place in the history books, which is a wonderful feeling. Whether I live another month or another decade, I’m content with whatever time I have left.

Despite the challenges, Hinch is hopeful about what’s ahead and believes he has more to offer if his health allows.

He was recently hospitalized again last month, following a period of health issues.

I was so worried to hear that the broadcaster recently had a fall and ended up with an infection. I saw the news on his official Facebook page, and I’m just hoping he has a speedy recovery. It’s always upsetting to hear when someone you admire isn’t feeling well.

A post made by Hinch’s assistant showed the star tucked in his hospital bed, looking frail. 

Recently, Hinch has bravely overcome several serious health challenges, including a life-threatening liver transplant, facial melanoma, a blood infection, and an irregular heartbeat.

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2025-11-24 16:03