Busted's James Bourne receives kidney from brother Chris

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 26 Oct, 22:27 · Archive

James Bourne says his brother Chris saved his life by donating a kidney after doctors told him he had only years to live.

Busted guitarist James Bourne has revealed that his brother Chris donated a kidney to him after doctors told him his condition was serious and he had only years to live. Bourne, 43, dropped out of an arena tour featuring Busted and McFly in September 2025 just a day before it began, citing health problems. His younger brother Chris replaced him for the tour and later underwent the transplant operation.

Bourne announced the donation on social media, saying: 'My condition was serious and the doctors told me I had a few years left to live.' He thanked his brother, calling him a 'hero' and saying he could not 'believe how much better' he was already feeling. Chris responded on X with the message: 'We did it brother.'

Bourne said both brothers are recovering from their surgery 'just fine' and that he would need more time to recover. He has not disclosed further details of his medical condition. The guitarist had previously said he needed major surgery to 'extend my life' after his initial withdrawal from the tour.

How it is being reported

• Busted star James Bourne says brother Chris ‘saved my life’ with kidney donationThe musician on Monday posted a rare health update.Evening Standard · 26 Oct, 22:59
• Busted's James Bourne says 'hero' brother saved his life with kidney donationThe guitarist says doctors had given him "a few years left to live", but is now recovering well.BBC News · 26 Oct, 22:07
• James Bourne ‘had a few years left to live’ before brother donated kidneyHis brother replaced him on the last Busted tour.Metro · 26 Oct, 16:40

In this story: James Bourne · Chris Bourne · Busted · McFly

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