Dario G star’s heartbreaking last post revealed just weeks before death aged 53 as tributes pour in for 90s icon

Nineties pop legend Dario G shared a final heartbreaking Instagram post vowing to beat his cancer just weeks before his tragic death.

The DJ, real name Paul Spencer, lost his battle with the disease at the age of 53, it was announced in a statement on Monday as tributes were paid to the ’90s icon.

Paul rose to fame as part of Cheshire dance trio Dario G and announced his rectal cancer diagnosis to followers last summer.

Three weeks ago, he took to Instagram to share a beaming photo from his hospital bed sharing a health update with fans.

Writing: ‘I’m out! Finally. Has anything interesting happened in the outside world in the past month? I know you have all shown overwhelming support, love and strength for me.”

He continued, “And countless others like me. I hope and pray that everyone gets the best opportunities. Thank you. I’m infection free now, but I feel like I already have the energy to beat this completely in the next stages, even though a little rest and recovery time would be appreciated.”

Tributes poured in for the DJ from the likes of YouTuber Stevo Timothy, Capital Breakfast’s Chris Stark and producer Sigala, who all hailed him as a ‘star’.

The statement announcing Paul’s death read: ‘It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Paul Spencer earlier today.

‘He was positive until the end, but this was a fight he could no longer fight. He leaves behind a wonderful musical legacy and many happy memories for many people.

‘He will be sadly missed by all who loved him. Shine bright our big star – K, A & H xxx.”

YouTuber Stevo Timothy took to X, formerly Twitter, to pay tribute to his ‘good friend’ Paul.

He wrote: ‘I just received the news that the legend Dario G has unfortunately crossed over to the other realm. The rave scene has lost a giant, from ‘Carnaval de Paris’ which became synonymous with the 98 World Cup to the glorious Sunchyme’. But more than that, he was Paul, he was a friend and a good friend.

‘I first met him when he came to our show in Manchester and I was amazed by his warmth, his friendliness and his supportive nature. We have met countless times since then in Ireland and Britain and every time he was such a consummate gentleman.

‘On stage he was a ball of energy, with his favorite trumpet absolutely belting out the melodies. We just spoke a few weeks ago and his positivity was incredible. He never lost that good nature, despite his illness and what the world threw at him.

‘I will miss you Paul, in a world of egos, narcissism and attitudes you were the epitome of goodness. I hope they let you sound the trumpet in heaven.’

Capital Breakfast presenter Christ Stark shared one of Paul’s songs as he paid tribute, saying: ‘Simply one of the sweetest, most supportive, brilliantly creative people I’ve ever known. Paul Spencer.

‘If you have a few minutes. Turn this up loud and think of all the good things in life. This will put a smile on your face forever, buddy.”

BBC radio presenter Phil Taggart wrote: ‘Such sad news of the passing of Paul Spencer (Dario G). He fought a tough battle against his illness. REST IN PEACE.’

Liverpool FC Matchday DJ George Sephton said: ‘If you’ve been to Anfield you’ve heard the beautiful electro-pop version of Ring of Fire. This was created by the extremely talented Dario G.

‘In reality he was my friend Paul Spencer. A nice man who I regret to say passed away today at the age of 52. RIP Paul.’

DJ Sigala responded to the post announcing his death, saying, “That’s so sad. A true inspiration, he brought joy to so many people and will live on forever through his music.

“Paul has told me many times over the last year, ‘Get yourself checked,’ so I’m passing that message on to whoever reads this, because I’m sure that’s what he would want. Our health should be more of a priority! He will be greatly missed. Sending love to his family, rest in peace friend xx.”

Radio host Mistajam said, “I send love and heartfelt condolences to his friends and family. Rest in peace, thanks for the music.’

Paul revealed last summer that he had been diagnosed with stage four rectal cancer.

The musician shared the sad news with fans on Twitter, but promised to “stay positive” as he prepares to discuss next steps with doctors.

Dario posted an image from a recent performance and wrote: ‘Hard to write this. I just found out I have stage 4 rectal cancer and a shadow on my liver. That’s damn hard to read too, I’m sure.

‘But I will do my best. Stay positive, because that’s me. Always. We’ll go to the doctors on Friday to discuss the next steps.’

He ended his post with ‘#f**kcancer’ and a four-leaf clover emoji.

After sharing the diagnosis, Paul was flooded with messages of support, including one who wrote: ‘Sending all my love.’

A second said: ‘Stay strong’, while a third then wrote: ‘I’m so sorry. Sending all my love xx.”

In April, Paul shared an update on his condition, writing: “I’m a fighter but wow this is a fight. I would have appreciated your love, prayers, healing energy and vibrations.

‘A cure would be quite helpful too 🙂 Currently in hospital for acute pain. Radiotherapy next week.

‘Also looking at future therapies. Thanks everyone. Only happy thoughts please. Cheerful.’

Rectal cancer is a disease in which cancer cells form in the tissues of the rectum. Signs of this may include blood in the stool, irregular bowel movements, unexplained weight loss or a change in appetite.

In stage four cancer, the cancer has spread from where it started to another organ in the body and is often called secondary cancer.

If rectal cancer is caught early enough, it is relatively treatable.

Paul was previously part of the electronic music trio known as Dario G, with their house track Sunchyme reaching number two in the charts.

The song’s iconic video featured dancers in safari costumes and matching makeup.

Although the trio has since disbanded, Paul continues to perform under his stage name.

More recently, Paul took the stage for the Biggest 90s Disco, with fellow music legends Vengaboys, 2 Unlimited, Haddaway and Phats & Small.

Photos from his recent performances showed Paul thrilling audiences at venues across the UK by playing the electric piano and performing Sunchyme.

In 1997, Dario G reached number five in the charts with their follow-up Carnaval de Paris, which later became the official song of the 1998 FIFA World Cup, held in France.