The first episode of Clarkson’s Farm revealed that Gerald Cooper had undergone an operation for cancer.
Mr Cooper, 74, has become one of the show's most beloved characters with his innocent demeanour and West Country charm.
His thick accent made him iconic among fans.
In the first series, fans may recall Mr Clarkson visiting Mr Cooper during the Covid pandemic to drop off potatoes and check in on his friend.
At the end of the first episode, Mr Clarkson receives the heart-breaking news during a phone call with who is thought to be Mr Cooper's wife.
Viewers are left in suspense as the former Top Gear and Grand Tour presenter is seen to be in dismay, before telling the cameras "Gerald's got cancer. Oh s***".
It’s great that the Mighty Yeltz have got such a large Worcestershire contingent in the squad this year. I’m sure we’ll make them all welcome.
— You Yeltz! (@YouYeltz) July 27, 2022
Anyway, completed unrelated, here’s a short clip of Gerald from Clarkson’s Farm. pic.twitter.com/YkttnxxJ6f
Mr Clarkson later reveals in the second episode more details about Mr Cooper's cancer diagnosis: "Gerald had been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
"Something me and Kaleb discussed while trying to do what our absent friend normally does."
"I've been phoning around, doctors and things I know, and his odds are really good but it's scaring him to death.'
Kaleb replies 'He doesn't understand, you know that."
Mr Clarkson adds: "I know he doesn't understand and he's bewildered because, for obvious reasons, somebody said, "Look, I'm sorry it's cancer", and that's all he heard. He's desperately upset, terrified. Poor man."
Later in the series, Kaleb and Mr Clarkson provide a positive update about the former's recovery.
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"He had his op three days ago. Have you talked to him?"
Mr Clarkson asks Kaleb: "He had his op three days ago. Have you talked to him?
"Yeah I spoke to him two days ago, I'm going to take him some pork," Kaleb replies.
He continued: "He wants some belly pork so he must be feeling a little bit better. He seems happier now as well."
Mr Clarkson later provided another positive update telling viewers that Gerald was "on the mend."
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