Host of popular travel show reveals cancer diagnosis

Popular travel television host Rick Steves has been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

The 69-year-old wrote on X Wednesday, Aug. 21 that his doctor assured him that the cancer does not show signs of spreading.

With that in mind, Steves’ doctor approved of him filming in France for the next three weeks.

The TV host and author will return to his home in Edmonds, Washington in mid-September and undergo surgery later that month. Steves is hoping to be fully cancer-free by the end of October.

“I have great trust in my doctor and in Seattle’s Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center. And I have lots more to be thankful for…including the support of friends and loved ones and a strong faith that I’m in good hands,” Steves wrote on X.

“I’m looking forward to many more years of happy travels, exciting collaborations, and beautiful friendships,” he added. “Thank you for your love and support (and any ‘travel tips’ you may have for me as I set off on this journey).”

Steves is the longtime host of PBS travel show “Rick Steves’ Europe,” which premiered in 2000.

He started his business Rick Steves’ Europe in 1976, which brings 30,000 travelers to Europe each year, according to Steves’ website.

In addition to Rick Steves’ Europe, Steves has penned several guidebook series, writes his own travel blog and as hosts a radio show called “Travel with Rick Steves.”