Popular television personality Sam Thompson has shared news of an upcoming medical procedure that will force the famously chatty star into complete silence.
Health revelations on the podcast
During the latest episode of his Staying Relevant podcast, co-hosted with friend Pete Wicks, the conversation turned to health matters. Pete, 37, mentioned an upcoming medical appointment related to a fall in December, which also aggravated existing eyesight issues.
This prompted Sam, 33, to joke: ‘That’s two men who are going for surgery this year.’ Pete teased that his co-host might be preparing for a music career, but Sam laughingly dismissed the idea before confirming the serious nature of his own situation.
‘Yeah, I genuinely am,’ Sam explained. ‘I’ve got a cyst on my vocal chords. I’m having that taken out, which is going to be mad because it means I have three days of vocal rest.’
Understanding the condition and recovery
Vocal cord cysts are non-cancerous growths that can cause hoarseness and strain. They frequently affect individuals who use their voice extensively, such as singers, broadcasters, and public speakers like Sam. The cysts form when mucus glands in the throat become blocked.
Medical advice following this type of surgery is strict: patients must not speak at all for the first 72 hours to allow the delicate vocal cords to heal properly. This enforced quiet will undoubtedly be a challenge for the energetic and talkative podcast host.
New romance offers support
Sam won't be navigating his recovery alone. After speaking openly about finding himself single again at the start of the New Year, he has now confirmed he is in a new relationship.
He is dating DJ and model Talitha Balinska. Fans first speculated about the pairing after a brief appearance by Talitha in one of Sam's Instagram videos weeks ago, which many called a ‘soft launch.’ Sam later shared a cosy photo on his Instagram Story of the couple enjoying a romantic meal.
It is believed Sam and Talitha were introduced by his friend and former Made in Chelsea co-star Reza Amiri-Garroussi. The pair initially met two years ago when Talitha modelled for their sunglasses brand, Dinelli.
Speaking excitedly on his podcast, Sam announced: ‘I’ve got a girlfriend. I’ve got a girlfriend!’ Pete Wicks humorously responded: ‘We’ve lost him again to the dark powers of a woman.’
Describing the moment he made things official, Sam said it was relaxed and simple. ‘We just went for dinner, and I was like, “I really like you.” And I just went, “I’d love to be your boyfriend.”’
He continued sweetly: ‘Look, I really, really like you, and you make me feel really… comfortable. I feel like I can be myself around you. I don’t want to be dating anyone else. I’m 33; I wouldn’t be dating someone this amount of time if I didn’t think it had legs to last. So, will you be my girlfriend?” And she said, “Yes.”’
The new relationship provides a welcome source of support for Sam as he prepares for his surgery and the unusual period of silence that will follow.
