Newman, 62, who played 300 VFL games for Geelong between 1964 and 1980 but is now better known for his comic role on the Nine Network's AFL Footy Show, was diagnosed three weeks ago with potentially life-threatening prostate cancer after a routine blood test for cholesterol levels.

In a story televised on the Nine Network, which included graphic images of the removal of Newman's prostate on Wednesday, Newman was told the results of pathology tests that determined whether or not the cancer had spread to other parts of his body.

His urologist, Dr Laurence Harewood, delivered the good news at Newman's bedside at the Epworth Hospital in Box Hill.

"We got your pathology back today and I'm delighted to say it looks fantastic," Dr Harewood said.

"What does that mean, doc?" Newman asked.

Dr Harewood said: "It means that the cancer is just inside the prostate ... and we've got it all out cleanly.

"So, Sam, I reckon we nailed it. All right? It looks good."

Newman hesitated for a moment, before replying: "Well, that is the best news I have ever had in my life".

He faced a nervous wait for pathology tests to be delivered this weekend to determine if the cancer had spread from his prostate.

Newman allowed a crew from the 60 Minutes program to cover his surgery to raise awareness of prostate cancer.

His great mate and former AFL Footy Show straight man, Eddie McGuire, reported on the operation and its effect on Newman for 60 Minutes.

Good friend and football legend Ted Whitten died of prostate cancer in 1995, with a foundation set up in his name to fight the disease.

Newman urged older men to ensure they were tested for prostate cancer to avoid the consequences of inaction.

"Just don't ignore the fact that people say that you should have a regular check-up after you're a certain age," he said.

"Please don't take your life for granted, because you never know. It mightn't be there to take for granted if you do. So face up to it and do it. Be tested, and enjoy life.

"It makes you enjoy it even more. It makes it more relevant."

Newman's post-football media career reached new heights in 1994 when he lent a comic edge to The Footy Show.

He has since become famous for his controversial stunts on the program, his ostentatious lifestyle and his romantic entanglements.

Thirty-two Australian men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each day, and more than 2,600 a year die from the disease.