Comedian John Bishop has broken his right ankle in a motorbike accident with astronaut Tim Peake, forcing him to pull out of a charity bike ride.
The 59-year-old Doctor Who star was scheduled to join 50-year-old Olympic track cyclist Sir Chris Hoy on Sunday for the Tour de 4 ride in aid of Prostate Cancer UK.
Bishop announced his injury in a video posted on Instagram on Tuesday, wearing the official fundraising shirt for Prostate Cancer UK while showing his right leg in a supportive brace.
In the video update, Bishop explained to his followers that he would no longer be able to participate in the event alongside Hoy, who is living with stage four prostate cancer.
Motorbike Ride With Tim Peake
Bishop explained that the accident occurred while he was out riding motorbikes with 54-year-old astronaut Tim Peake earlier in the day.
"I went out for a motorbike ride today with Tim Peake, who's a brilliant lad and a great motorcyclist," Bishop said in the video message.
Joking about the incident, the comedian added: "And I learnt a lesson today - astronauts are better motorcyclists than comedians, and so it looks like I've broken my ankle, which means, unfortunately, I can't do the ride."
Despite his disappointment, the Skins actor urged his followers to maintain their support for the charity and the participants taking part in the upcoming event.
"But please continue supporting Prostate Cancer UK and supporting Sir Chris Hoy on his ride on Sunday," he said, signing off the video: "Thanks a lot. Gutted to miss it."
Messages of Support From Chris Hoy and Tim Peake
Writing in the caption accompanying his Instagram upload, Bishop shared his frustration at having to miss the fundraising ride.
"So gutted that I'm going to have to miss Sir Chris Hoy's Tour de 4 this Sunday due to an injury," Bishop wrote. "I was really looking forward to taking part and helping raise awareness and vital funds for prostate cancer research."
He added: "Although I won't be able to be there, I'll be cheering on everyone taking part. Please continue to support Chris, the incredible riders and this brilliant cause. Good luck to everyone riding this Sunday!"
Sir Chris Hoy led the messages of support in the comments section of the post, writing: "Heal fast mate! So sorry we won't get to see you but there's always next year!"
Tim Peake also posted a comment offering sympathy, writing: "Gutted for you mate, you were a rockstar but so sorry you're missing out on this. 'Til the next time!!"
Supporters also sent well-wishes online. One fan wrote, "Awh John, sorry to hear that. Wishing you a speedy recovery," while a second said, "Ouch. This sucks I hope you have a speedy recovery John." A third follower commented, "Get well soon John, don't let it put you off getting back on the bike though! All the best."
Motorcycling Background and Family Connection
Bishop developed an interest in motorcycling in 2023 after receiving a scooter left to him by his late father-in-law, Mike, who passed away.
The gift sparked his interest in riding motorbikes, which led to his outing with Peake this week. Bishop has been married to his wife, Melanie, since 1993.
The stand-up comedian has enjoyed a successful career in British entertainment, performing sell-out comedy tours and starring in television series including Doctor Who, where he played companion Dan Lewis, and the teen drama Skins.
Sir Chris Hoy and the Tour de 4
The charity event, Sir Chris Hoy's Tour de 4, is organized to raise vital funds and awareness for Prostate Cancer UK.
Hoy, a six-time Olympic track cycling champion for Great Britain, previously stated that he is doing "really well" in his fight against stage four prostate cancer.
Prostate Cancer UK is the country's leading charity for prostate cancer, dedicated to funding research into better diagnosis and treatments while offering support services to affected men and their families.
The Tour de 4 cycling event takes place this Sunday, with riders taking to the roads to raise money for prostate cancer research.
