BBC and Death in Paradise actor Danny John-Jules has publicly condemned a cruel online hoax that falsely claimed he had died from cancer. The 65-year-old star was forced to address the fabricated reports after a post, purportedly from his son, began circulating on social media platform X.
A Twisted Fabrication
The fake announcement, which appeared on Friday, 19 December 2025, featured a picture of John-Jules alongside text designed to look like a tribute from his son, Danté Langlais-John-Jules. It stated, "With indescribable sorrow, we share the news that my father, Danny John-Jules, has passed away", adding that he had "fought cancer for a long time."
The actor, best known for playing Officer Dwayne Myers in the hit BBC series Death in Paradise, responded with fury. He shared the hoax post and wrote a strongly-worded message aimed at those responsible for dragging his family into the disrespectful stunt.
The Actor's Furious Response
In his post, the former Strictly Come Dancing contestant did not hold back. He said, "Whoever finds the ***ish **** who brought my son (singing) into this disrespect of a terrible disease that blights the lives of so many, has my permission to cut their b***s off (Or the female equivalent)."
His fans and followers were quick to rally in support, flooding the comments with messages of disgust and relief. One person described the act as "utterly appalling," while another expressed sorrow that the actor and his family had to endure such an ordeal. A third fan commented, "That is an appalling thing to happen. So sorry. Delighted you're OK."
A Beloved Career
Danny John-Jules remains a beloved figure on British television. He is currently celebrated for his role as Dwayne Myers in Death in Paradise, a part he reprised in 2021 for a 90-minute special. His career began decades earlier, with his iconic role as the Cat in the cult sci-fi comedy series Red Dwarf during the 1980s.
The incident highlights the distressing impact of malicious online rumours on public figures and their families, particularly when they exploit serious illnesses like cancer. John-Jules's forceful rebuttal has drawn widespread attention to the issue of digital harassment and fake news.
