John Gibbs, the former Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles halfback and popular ABC Sport rugby league commentator, has been diagnosed with cancer. The 70-year-old announced on Monday, August 3rd, 2026, that he will be stepping away from broadcasting to focus on his health.

Gibbs, affectionately known as "Gibbsy," played 81 first-grade games for the Sea Eagles and represented New South Wales and Australia during his playing career. He has been part of the ABC Sport team since 2016 and was on the ABC Sport call with Andrew Moore and Matthew Elliott on Sunday afternoon when the Parramatta Eels defeated the Wests Tigers.

Andrew Moore, ABC Sport's lead rugby league caller, shared that Gibbs personally confirmed his diagnosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma, a type of cancer. Moore said, "He knows he's in for a fight, but he wants you to know he's up for it. Like so many of you, he's ready to kick cancer to the kerb and beat the mongrel."

Moore also noted that Gibbs wanted listeners to be aware he is prepared for his upcoming treatment, which will be discussed on NRL MONDAY.

Sources