When Christine McGuinness signed up for Celebrity Hunted, she wasn’t just stepping out of her comfort zone—she was stepping into a world of courage and determination inspired by her mum’s valiant fight against cancer. The 36-year-old model and TV personality has opened up about how her mother Joanne’s harrowing experience with HER2-positive breast cancer motivated her to take on the grueling challenge. “I did the show with Mum in mind,” Christine revealed, sharing how her mum’s strength became her driving force. But what pushed her to face her fears head-on? And how did her mum react to her decision?
Christine’s journey on Celebrity Hunted was more than just a test of physical endurance—it was a deeply personal mission. Her mum, Joanne, was diagnosed with breast cancer during lockdown and has since undergone surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Despite the grueling treatment, Joanne’s resilience has been a source of inspiration for Christine. “She is still having treatment, and she is doing incredibly well,” Christine shared, adding that her mum’s positive attitude kept her going during the toughest moments of the show.
But Christine’s decision to participate wasn’t just about raising awareness for cancer; it was also about proving to herself—and her mum—that she could overcome her fears. “When I told her I was going to do the show, she went, ‘Oh God, you’re going to embarrass us again’,” Christine joked. However, her performance exceeded expectations, showcasing her determination and grit.
Christine’s experience also prompted her to take proactive steps for her own health. After four of her aunties were diagnosed with cancer, she underwent testing for the BRCA gene, which can increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Thankfully, her results came back negative. “I’m just really relieved. Thank God it came back negative,” she said. However, the possibility of her children inheriting the gene remains a concern, highlighting the ongoing impact of her family’s battle with cancer.
Through it all, Christine’s story is one of love, resilience, and hope. Her participation in Celebrity Hunted not only honored her mum’s fight but also shed light on the importance of early detection and genetic testing. As she continues to support her mum and raise awareness, Christine’s bravery serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can find strength and purpose.