Los Angeles actors William Shatner, daughter survive stage 4 cancers
PUBLISHED Jul 22, 2026, 3:25 PM ET
Read, Watch or Listen
Actor William Shatner, 95, and his youngest daughter, Melanie Shatner Gretsch, 61, have disclosed that they underwent overlapping battles with separate stage 4 cancers beginning in mid-2022. Melanie was diagnosed in July 2022 with HER2-positive breast cancer that had spread to lymph nodes in her chest, requiring chemotherapy, 30 radiation sessions, and a double mastectomy over 18 months. In June 2023, Shatner was diagnosed with stage 4 malignant melanoma that had metastasized to his lungs and brain, treated with surgery and a two-year immunotherapy regimen. Physicians declared both cancer-free in late 2024. They plan a health-focused podcast launch on July 29, 2026.
By Shahbaz A. | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- July 2022 Melanie diagnosed with metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer
- July 2022 Intensive chemotherapy and radiation treatments begin
- Late 2022 Melanie undergoes double mastectomy surgery
- June 2023 Shatner notices growing cheek lump
- Mid 2023 Imaging confirms melanoma spread to lungs, brain
- Mid 2023 Shatner starts two-year systemic immunotherapy
- Late 2024 Doctors declare both patients cancer-free
- July 29 2026 Health and longevity podcast scheduled premiere
News Intelligence
- Cancer doesn't discriminate by age or fame. Shatner's and Melanie's stories remind us of the importance of regular check-ups and early detection. If you've been putting off that doctor's visit, consider this a nudge to schedule it.
Comments