Joe Biden’s son, Hunter, has revealed in an interview with the BBC that his father’s cancer has spread beyond the prostate, affecting bones and other organs. The former U.S. president, who was diagnosed with advanced-stage prostate cancer in May 2025, continues to face deteriorating health conditions despite ongoing treatment. Hunter described the situation as “very painful and very debilitating,” emphasizing the emotional toll on the family. He noted that while his father remains active in public life, he believes Joe should “complain more” because he is clearly suffering. The interview, which aired late on the previous evening, saw Hunter Biden speak candidly about the progression of his father’s illness. He stated that the cancer has developed into metastases, making it increasingly difficult for Joe to carry out daily activities. Despite this, Hunter praised his father’s resilience, calling him “the backbone of our family.” He highlighted how Joe continues to engage publicly on issues he cares about, even as his physical condition worsens. “He still does his work,” Hunter said, adding that his father’s belief in the country remains unwavering. Joe Biden, 83 years old, was first diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer, Gleason score 9, in May 2025, shortly after leaving the White House. At the time, doctors confirmed the presence of bone metastases. Treatment began immediately, including hormone therapy and radiation aimed at slowing the disease’s spread. However, the cancer has continued to progress, according to Hunter’s recent remarks. The former president has been regularly visible in public, though his mobility appears to have declined over time. His wife, Jill Biden, has also been present during many of these appearances, offering support. Hunter Biden’s comments came amid broader discussions about his father’s political career and personal struggles. In the interview, he touched on the infamous June 2024 presidential debate between Biden and Donald Trump, which many analysts viewed as a turning point in the election. Hunter admitted he was shocked by his father’s performance at the time, noting that he had sensed something was wrong. While initially attributed to fatigue from constant travel, Hunter now questions whether the cancer was already impacting his father’s ability to perform. Nevertheless, he acknowledged Joe’s determination to remain politically engaged. The conversation also turned to the controversial pardon granted by Joe Biden to Hunter in December 2024, related to federal charges involving firearms and tax evasion. Hunter expressed mixed feelings about the decision, acknowledging its potential negative impact on his father’s legacy. “It wasn’t a good thing for America, the Constitution, or his political history,” he said. Yet, he also emphasized gratitude for the act, stating it allowed him to avoid legal consequences. “No one else could have done that for me,” he added, highlighting the personal significance of the pardon. Throughout the interview, Hunter reflected on his own past, including his battle with drug addiction. He described periods of heavy alcohol consumption and frequent crack cocaine use, calling them “hell on earth.” He rejected the idea that his status as a celebrity son made him untouchable, instead focusing on his desire for escape. These revelations underscored the complexity of his relationship with his father, balancing admiration with criticism. As the former president’s health continues to decline, the Biden family faces the challenge of navigating both public scrutiny and private grief. Hunter’s recent statements provide a rare glimpse into the emotional strain placed on the family, while also reinforcing the enduring influence Joe Biden holds within his household. The next steps will likely involve medical decisions and continued public engagement, though the pace of Joe Biden’s involvement may slow further. For now, the focus remains on managing his condition and supporting his loved ones through this difficult period.
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