Pete Doherty: Libertines singer threatens amputation of the toes

Pete Doherty (45) was warned of an amputation by his doctors. A year ago, the singer of the Libertines and Babyshambles was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

The musician has recently performed his current European tour. He explained to the audience in Munich on stage: “I was at the doctor today and he said ‘You have to protect your feet as much as possible, otherwise you will lose your toes’.”

Pete Doherty had been dependent on heavy drugs for years, but has been clean since 2021. Last spring, Doherty had his diabetes diagnosis and reported how difficult it is to change life: “For me, type 2 diabetes was diagnosed. And at the moment I lack the discipline to get the cholesterol level under control.”

He explained to the “Guardian” that he had given up the “main poison” – the drugs – whereupon his health had improved. However, his unhealthy and excessive diet now seems to be a problem. “Then you are told that alcohol, cheese and sugar are just as bad and that you were healthier when you took heroin.”

In the interview, Doherty described himself as “diverse”. His doctor told him that he had to change his diet because he consumed too much cheese and too much milk. His preference for French Comté on Toast is a problem. “But the cheese is so good, that’s one of the reasons why I stay here …”, he said.

Even the alcohol is still not averse. “I like to experiment, do cocktails with champagne, a little bit around, orange juice, I’m a bit like an alcoholic over, but I’m not – I like a nice glass of water.” In addition, he seems to be missing movement, he describes sleep as his “secret pleasure” in the interview. He now sleeps a lot, while he used to be on his feet for six days in a row.

Pete Doherty has been living in France with his wife Katia de Vidas and his little daughter Billie May for several years.