Bruce Campbell, the long-time horror star famed for the Evil Dead series, has revealed he’s been diagnosed with an “incurable” form of cancer, sharing the news on Monday, March 2.
Campbell, 67, disclosed the diagnosis in a social media post, explaining the surprise health update and how it will affect his plans going forward.
In a text overlay posted to both X and Instagram, he opened with: “Hi folks, these days, when someone is having a health issue, it’s referred to as an ‘opportunity,’ so let’s go with that. I’m having one of those.”
He then confirmed he is dealing with an undisclosed cancer, writing: “ It’s also called a type of cancer that’s ‘treatable’ not ‘curable.’ I apologize if that’s a shock – it was to me too.
Campbell said he won’t be offering additional specifics about the illness or his treatment regiment, though he noted he wanted to address it publicly for work-related reasons because ‘a few things will have to change.’
He added that his schedule—particularly appearances, conventions, and ‘work in general’—will be pushed aside, as they take ‘a back seat to treatment.’
“My plan is to get as well as I possibly can over the summer so that I can tour with my new movie Ernie & Emma this fall,” he said. “There are several cons this year summer that I have to cancel. Big regrets on my part. Treatment needs and professional obligations don’t always go hand-in-hand.”
He also explained that he decided to share the update now not to ‘enlist sympathy-or advice’.
“I just want to get ahead of this information in case false information gets out (which it will).”
Although the diagnosis has understandably stunned those close to him, Campbell struck an upbeat tone and reassured supporters that he’s staying hopeful, calling himself a ‘tough old son-of-a-b***h with a great support” and saying he expects ‘to be around a while.’
After the post went live, many fans responded with supportive messages in the comments, including: “We all have so much love for you Bruce. Take all of this positive energy and kick cancers ass.”
Another wrote: “You got this Bruce! Love and positive vibes to you!”
Campbell is most widely recognized for leading Sam Raimi’s 1981 cult horror hit The Evil Dead, later returning as Ash Williams across multiple entries in the franchise. Beyond that, he’s built a sizeable list of credits spanning indie projects and prime-time TV, as well as mainstream family releases—including Disney titles like Cars 2.