Russell T Davies, the screenwriter behind Doctor Who, It’s a Sin, and Tip Toe, opened up about the death of his husband Andrew Smith during an appearance on the On the Marie Curie Couch podcast. Smith died in September 2018 following eight years of treatment for glioblastoma multiforme, an aggressive malignant brain tumour. The couple had been together for two decades and married in 2012.
Davies recounted the circumstances surrounding Smith’s initial diagnosis, explaining that he was not present at the hospital appointment when Smith received the diagnosis. Upon returning home, Smith informed Davies that he had been diagnosed with cancer but could not recall the specific type. Davies later learned it was glioblastoma multiforme when Smith discovered a note written by a nurse three days after the appointment. Upon researching the diagnosis, Davies realized the severity of the condition.
Davies highlighted a significant decision Smith made following his diagnosis: choosing not to learn details about his prognosis. Davies expressed initial concern about this choice, questioning a nurse about whether Smith should be aware of how serious the condition was. The nurse reassured Davies that it was acceptable for Smith to remain unaware as long as someone close to him knew the facts. Initially told his husband had approximately 18 months to live, Smith ultimately survived for eight years, which Davies described as remarkable.
Davies reflected on the caregiving process, characterizing it as demanding work but stating he would willingly repeat the experience for another 50 years without complaint. He expressed gratitude toward the Marie Curie nurses who provided support during Smith’s final weeks, comparing their presence to having a saint in the home. Davies recalled being present at Smith’s bedside when he died at home, alongside his sister, describing the experience as very important to him.
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