John Hurt: ‘Doctor Who’ Actor’s Cancer Battle Leaves Him ‘Optimistic’ In Spite Of It


John Hurt, of Doctor Who, Alien, and Hellboy fame, has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

The news hasn’t hit him hard though, as he is reportedly remaining optimistic about it.

At the age of 75, Hurt has definitely lived a full life, full of accomplishments few could ever match. In Alien, Sigourney Weaver, Hurt was the first to host the infamous chest-burster, showing us how horrible the fate is for “face hugger” victims. He reprised the scene for comedic value in Mel BrooksSpaceballs, where the alien did the same thing, only to burst into song and make its exit at the end of the bar.

Hurt has also made appearances in the above mentioned Doctor Who 50th anniversary special, as well as the role of Mr. Ollivander, the man who gave Harry Potter his first wand. The actor even played father figure and mentor to the immature demon child Hellboy, played by Ron Perlman.

John Hurt‘s movies are only the launching point of the rest of his career, the veteran actor said. His recent diagnosis won’t stop him, he claims.

“I have always been open about the way in which I conduct my life and in that spirit I would like to make a statement. I have recently been diagnosed with early stage pancreatic cancer. I am undergoing treatment and am more than optimistic about a satisfactory outcome, as indeed is the medical team.

“I am continuing to focus on my professional commitments and will shortly be recording Jeffrey Bernard Is Unwell (one of life’s small ironies!) for BBC Radio 4.”

Just last year, Hurt was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II, according to the Economic Times, and the actor has no intention of letting cancer keep him down.

John Hurt, your fans eagerly await your next endeavor after knocking cancer out of your way.

[Image via Stuart C. Wilson / Getty Images]

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