Kenny Everett was an English radio DJ and television entertainer renowned for his zany comedic style, captivating millions and becoming a national treasure. Despite his popularity, a media frenzy invaded his private life when he was compelled to publicly disclose his sexuality outside his Kensington home, famously quipping, “two husbands are better than one,” while being photographed with his two partners, Nikolai and Pepe.

Subsequently, the media pressured him into revealing his HIV-positive status, which later progressed into what was then termed ‘full-blown AIDS,’ a diagnosis made just prior to the advent of antiretroviral therapies that dramatically altered the course of the disease. Throughout this ordeal, Kenny displayed remarkable determination and courage, consistently responding to intrusive questions about his health with candour and optimism. His resilience and openness have cemented his status as a significant figure and an icon.

All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:

XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - KENNY EVERETT

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Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE

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Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -

• British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers
• Audio Interviewee's 'Unforgettable Kenny Everett' © ITV
• Audio Interviewee's 'Kenny Everett: In the Best Possible Taste' © BBC

Terence ‘Terry’ Madeley, a London-born actor, received a positive HIV diagnosis in 1985 after long grappling with a decline in his health. Despite the inevitable challenges, Terry remained steadfast in his magnanimous relationship with his long-term partner, Peter, and vowed to outlive the AIDS virus.

In February 1987, during ‘AIDS Week’ on UK television, Terry made a brave decision to disclose his condition publicly, with his mother Lil’ standing by his side. A documentary, produced in collaboration with the BBC and presenter Pattie Coldwell, was underway to tell his story. Tragically, Terry passed away before filming was completed, but the captured footage enabled the BBC and Pattie to release Remember Terry in December 1987. The documentary proved instrumental in raising awareness and fostering tolerance towards HIV/AIDS during a crucial period.

All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:

XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - TERRY MADELEY

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Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE

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Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -

• British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers
• 'Remember Terry' 1987 Pattie Coldwell ©BBC - Watch on YouTube
• Terry Madeley personal account 'ABC of AIDS' by British Medical Journal 1987

WITHOUT PREJUDICE

As the host and producer of AIDS: The Lost Voices, I share episodes that highlight the discrimination, stigma, isolation, and vilification faced by many people living with HIV/AIDS over the decades. Despite keeping my professional life separate from my podcast, I never anticipated experiencing similar prejudice while working for the well-known pub company Fuller’s, trading as Griffin Catering Services Ltd. Unfortunately, during my employment, I was subjected to seven months of HIV/AIDS-related discrimination that violated the Equality Act 2010. Faced with no other recourse, I had no choice but to lodge a legal claim with the HM Courts and Tribunals to challenge this injustice.

However, it did not end there, and I was subjected to a barrage of harassment, victimisation, and bullying, which must be presented before the court. The matter has also involved the Metropolitan Police as a hate crime. When I exercised my right to raise concerns, I was not only perceived as a biological threat but also branded a troublemaker. Subsequently, I faced some of the wildest, unfounded, and baseless allegations, all seemingly orchestrated to justify my removal and dismissal.

The Judge has now ordered the hearing to be scheduled for three days in December 2026, ensuring that the matter will receive the thorough attention it warrants. It cannot be said that I am unable to share my experience and journey through such discrimination on this podcast, especially given that I have seemingly become the subject of the news rather than just a reader of it. This platform offers a crucial space to voice the realities faced, shedding light on the injustices endured and allowing a broader audience to understand the personal impact behind HIV/AIDS discrimination in the workplace.

NB: Employment Tribunals are open to the public, including listings of the claimant and respondent. There is a significant public interest in this case and further is shared on channels have been established for several years to cover HIV/AIDS discrimination and is a professional account and not a personal one. This should not be deemed malicious nor vexatious, just an exercise of my right to share and impart public information within the public interest as part of my basic, legal and human right.