Pete Doherty Reveals Doctors Warned Him He Might Lose a Toe in His Battle with Type 2 Diabetes

In a candid revelation, Pete Doherty, the frontman of the iconic band The Libertines, has disclosed that doctors have warned him he may face the amputation of a toe as he battles Type 2 diabetes. At 45 years old, the singer has been open about his health struggles, which have taken a toll on his body and lifestyle.

During a recent performance in Munich, Germany, captured in a video obtained by The Sun, Doherty shared an update on his health with fans. “Today I went to the doctor, and he said you need to avoid standing as much as possible, or you’ll lose a toe,” he stated, leaving the audience in stunned silence. The reality of living with Type 2 diabetes is harsh, as it significantly increases the risk of various health complications, including amputations.

The Diagnosis

Doherty was diagnosed with this chronic condition last year, and he has been grappling with the implications ever since. “I’ve been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. And right now, I don’t have the discipline to deal with my cholesterol issues,” he admitted, showcasing his trademark honesty.

The singer, who has long battled addiction, has made significant lifestyle changes in an effort to improve his health. After receiving a stern warning from his doctor, he decided to give up his “main poisons” to focus on his well-being. “I’ve given up the main poisons, and my health has improved,” he shared, but the struggle is far from over.

A Battle with Addiction

Doherty has been open about his tumultuous relationship with drugs, famously battling addiction for years. He has previously stated that he found it easier to quit heroin than to give up cheese, a humorous yet poignant reflection on his struggles. “You’re told that alcohol, cheese, and sugar are just as harmful, and you’re healthier when you’re on heroin,” he quipped, highlighting the absurdity of his situation.

In an interview with The Guardian, he revealed that he had to make drastic changes to his diet after consulting with a liver specialist. “I need to change my diet—too much cheese, too much milk,” he confessed. “But cheese is so delicious; that’s part of the reason I’m still here… Now it’s a cholesterol and diabetes issue, but there are medications that make a big difference.”

The rock star has acknowledged that his hefty frame is a result of his indulgent eating habits. In 2021, he mentioned that he had traded drugs for cheese on toast and long naps after years of sleepless nights during his wildest days. “I love Comté [a type of French cheese], Comté on toast. My guilty pleasure is sleeping,” he said, revealing a more grounded side to his personality.

After years of partying and substance abuse, Doherty has embraced a new lifestyle. “For many years, I would stay awake for five or six days and then sleep for 24 hours, so now I really enjoy sleeping. I’m pretty clean now. I’ve stopped using heroin and ketamine,” he stated, showing a commitment to his health.

However, he also admitted to enjoying experimenting with cocktails, saying, “I like to mix champagne with a bit of rum and orange juice. I might seem a bit of a lush, but I just enjoy a good glass of water.”

A Transformation in France

Doherty has made significant changes in his life, moving to France with his wife, Katia de Vidas, and their young daughter, Billie-May. This change of scenery seems to have had a positive impact on him. He has been spotted walking his dog, sporting a salt-and-pepper hairstyle and a fuller figure, while casually enjoying a piece of cheese as a snack.

In a previous interview with documentary filmmaker Louis Theroux, Doherty described himself as “a very sick man.” Reflecting on his past lifestyle, he admitted that he never thought he would live long and felt that “death was lurking.”

Despite having been clean from drugs for three years, he still indulged in alcohol and was seen drinking rum and smoking during his interview with Theroux. His struggles with addiction have been documented in a film titled Peter Doherty: Stranger In My Own Skin, which chronicles his harrowing battle with substance abuse and the toll it has taken on his life.

The Documentary

The documentary, filmed over more than a decade by his wife, Katia de Vidas, showcases the depths of his addiction, including painful performances as his health deteriorated. In one particularly disturbing scene, he is seen tying a tourniquet around his arm before injecting heroin, followed by a moment where he shouts at a 

crowd of fans, “On one hand, thank you all, on the other… f*** you!” This raw and unfiltered moment captures the chaotic duality of Doherty’s life—his gratitude for his fans juxtaposed with the demons he battles daily.

In the film, he candidly shares, “Drugs infiltrated my life and slowly, gradually, then very quickly, took control of me.” This admission highlights the insidious nature of addiction and how it can consume even the most talented individuals. Doherty first experimented with heroin at the age of 23, but it wasn’t until a trip to Japan that he realized the extent of his addiction when he found himself sweating and nauseous.

A Journey of Redemption

Despite the dark moments captured in the documentary, Doherty has shown resilience and a desire for redemption. His move to France and commitment to a healthier lifestyle reflect a man who is determined to turn his life around. He has embraced fatherhood and the responsibilities that come with it, which has undoubtedly influenced his decision to prioritize his health.

In interviews, he has expressed a newfound appreciation for life and the simple pleasures it offers. “I’m enjoying the little things now,” he said, referring to his family life and the joy of being present for his daughter. This shift in perspective is crucial for anyone recovering from addiction, as it fosters a sense of purpose and motivation to stay clean.

Facing the Future

As Pete Doherty continues to navigate the challenges of Type 2 diabetes and the lingering effects of his past, he remains a figure of intrigue and inspiration. His journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of seeking help when needed. While the road ahead may be fraught with obstacles, Doherty has shown that change is possible, and it often begins with a single step.

His recent health scare serves as a wake-up call, not just for him but for many who may be facing similar struggles. The reality of living with diabetes is daunting, but with the right support and lifestyle changes, it is manageable. Doherty’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to make positive changes and prioritize one’s health.

A Candid Reflection

In a world where celebrity lives are often glamorized, Pete Doherty stands out for his honesty and vulnerability. He has faced his demons head-on, and while he may not have all the answers, his willingness to share his experiences resonates with many. His journey is a powerful reminder that life is a continuous process of learning, growing, and evolving.

As he continues to perform and connect with fans, Doherty embodies the spirit of resilience. He is not just a rock star; he is a survivor, a father, and a man who is determined to reclaim his life. With each performance, he not only entertains but also inspires others to confront their challenges and strive for a better future.