Top comedian shares photo from hospital bed after being rushed to A&E

Comedian Jason Manford has revealed he was rushed to hospital and underwent emergency surgery after being diagnosed with appendicitis, forcing him to cancel multiple dates on his UK comedy tour.

The 44-year-old had been due to perform his A Manford All Seasons show in Hertfordshire on Thursday, but the performance was abruptly called off due to illness. It was later confirmed that three more shows in Oxford, Lincoln and Skegness were also cancelled and have since been rescheduled.

Taking to Instagram, Jason shared a photo from his hospital bed and updated fans on his condition following surgery. "Appendix surgery all went well, now in recovery with my Vimto - they serve it in all Manchester hospitals," he wrote.

Describing the ordeal as "bit of a scary & extremely painful 24 hours," he explained that his symptoms began while he was driving at 70mph on the motorway. The condition, caused by inflammation of the appendix, often results in severe pain and usually requires urgent surgical removal.

"Thankful to our NHS & my incredible nurse mum who's a godsend in a health crisis!" he added. "Thank you for understanding, we apologise for any inconvenience caused."

In a follow-up statement shared to X, it was confirmed that shows at Oxford's New Theatre, Lincoln's Engine Shed and Skegness' Embassy Hall had all been postponed.

"We regret to inform you that the following performances of A Manford All Seasons have been unexpectedly cancelled due to Jason Manford being unwell," the post read. "We apologise for any inconvenience caused."

Manford admitted he had hoped to continue performing, despite the pain. "I thought I could get by on antibiotics and surgery at a later date so I could still do the shows, but was advised not to."

The timing of the operation also means he'll miss out on a family trip abroad. "Also means I can't fly out to Portugal on Monday to join my family on holiday! Ah well, such is life."

Sharing his disappointment, he added: "Seriously though, I'm gutted that I've had to move the dates this weekend... Thanks for all the 'Get Well Soon' messages."

Earlier in the day, organisers confirmed the cancellation of his Hertfordshire show, citing his ill health.