Joe Amabile reveals early stage brain tumor diagnosis
Bachelor in Paradise star Joe Amabile told Instagram followers on Monday that doctors discovered what looks to be an early-stage brain tumor. A whole-body MRI revealed a blueberry-sized lesion in his brain that physicians said looks to be a glioma, which is a tumor. Amabile, 40, expects brain surgery in about two weeks. The reality alum said the procedure will remove and test the growth so doctors can confirm the diagnosis and plan next steps.
Amabile's disclosure quickly drew attention across Celebrity Breaking News, given his long tenure in Bachelor Nation and his appearances on The Bachelorette and Dancing with the Stars.
Key Takeaways
- Joe Amabile shared the diagnosis in an Instagram video posted July 13, 2026.
- A whole-body MRI found a blueberry-sized brain lesion doctors said looks to be a glioma.
- Amabile, 40, expects brain surgery in two weeks to remove and test the lesion.
- Doctors told him the tumor appears to be in early stages, though final results will follow surgery.
- Amabile is married to Serena Pitt, whom he met on Bachelor in Paradise.
What Did Joe Amabile Reveal About His Health?
In the video, Amabile said the past month had been "a lot of ups and downs." After multiple scans and MRIs, he wrote in his caption that he has "what looks to be an early-stage brain tumor."
He explained that doctors found a lesion during screening and that follow-up imaging showed a blueberry-sized spot. According to Amabile, physicians told him it "looks to be a glioma, which is a tumor."
Despite the news, he said he feels fine and is "doing my best to stay positive during this time." He added that he is grateful for support from family and friends and promised to keep followers updated.
How Was the Brain Lesion Discovered?
Amabile said he learned about the lesion after undergoing a whole-body MRI screening. That scan led to additional brain MRI imaging that identified the growth.
He did not describe specific symptoms in the posts covered by ABC News, which reported the update alongside outlets including USA Today and People. The discovery came as a surprise, he said, adding that he never expected something like this would happen to him.
What Happens Next for Joe Amabile?
Amabile said his brain surgery is scheduled in about two weeks. The procedure is intended to remove the lesion and allow doctors to test it so they can determine the exact diagnosis and next steps.
He said doctors believe the tumor is in early stages and expressed hope that surgeons will be able to remove it entirely. "I hope they are able to get it all and I'm fine, but I will keep you updated," he told fans.
Who Is Joe Amabile and Why Does This Matter to Fans?
Amabile first gained fame on season 14 of The Bachelorette and later appeared on Bachelor in Paradise, where he met his wife, Serena Pitt. He also competed on season 27 of Dancing with the Stars.
His candid update resonated across Bachelor Nation because he has remained one of the franchise's most recognizable personalities. For many viewers who followed his relationship with Pitt and his post-show career, the Joe Amabile early stage diagnosis landed as personally as it did publicly.