Lucy Davis is opening up about a devastating health battle she had kept private for more than a year. The 53-year-old actress, best known for playing Dawn Tinsley in the British version of “The Office,” revealed that she has stage 4 breast cancer that has spread to several of her bones.
Lucy Davis Reveals Stage 4 Breast Cancer Diagnosis in Emotional Statement
Davis shared the diagnosis in an emotional Instagram post on Tuesday, August 11, explaining that she learned she had cancer a year and a half ago. The actress said the disease has metastasized to her spine, right hip and ribs.
“I wanted to share something with you all that I’ve kept to myself for a while but for various reasons would like to share now,” Davis wrote.
“A year and a half ago I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Breast Cancer, which has metastasized to my bones. Specifically to my spine, right hip, and my ribs. The cancer is incurable, and too late for chemo.”
Lucy Davis Almost Didn’t Get the Initial Sign Checked
GettyDavis also issued a warning to others after revealing that the first sign she noticed was so small that she nearly dismissed it.
“The initial lump that I felt, wasn’t a ‘lump’ as such; rather a kind of hard spot. Really tiny. I almost didn’t bother getting it checked. So I guess I’m saying don’t ignore anything – get everything checked out:)”
Lucy Davis Says Cancer Pain Sometimes Requires a Wheelchair
The actress was equally candid about how cancer has affected her everyday life. Davis said the pain can make it difficult to remain on her feet for extended periods and that she sometimes relies on a wheelchair.
“As some of you will know, the pain can really be something else. Standing and walking for too long a time can be hard, and I need to use a wheelchair sometimes (so if you see me toddling around in one, feel free to give me a push!)”
Lucy Davis Says Humor Has Helped Her Through Cancer
Even amid the seriousness of her diagnosis, Davis said she has deliberately held on to her sense of humor. She has even encouraged those closest to her not to treat her differently.
“The thing that has been most vital to me is humour. I asked my friends and family to make fun of me as much as possible (which they’re really good at🙄), and most importantly of all to not treat me like a sick person. There’s nothing that will make you feel more unwell than being treated as if you’re unwell.”
Lucy Davis Says She Is ‘At Peace’ With What Comes Next
Davis also spoke movingly about her outlook on the future, saying she is focused on enjoying whatever time she has rather than living in fear.
“As of now, I’m trying to live out whatever might be left of my life in as fun a way as I possibly can. I always like to find the teachable moments in anything negative that happens. And cancer has not disappointed in that regard; there’s a lot I have learned from it, and I’m grateful for that.”
She continued, “I’m not scared of whatever comes next. I’m at peace with it. I’ll see my Gracie sooner than expected, and for me, leaving my physical body just means going home. Any and all grieving is for my family; it’s far harder for them than for me.”
Lucy Davis Plans to Keep Acting and Supporting Animal Rights
Despite the diagnosis, Davis made clear that she does not consider her career over. Acting remains one of the great joys of her life, and she also plans to continue advocating for animal rights.
“I’m still going to keep up all my work for animal rights. It’s so important to me🐾 And I still would like to keep working. I’m perfectly able to do so, and acting is one of the biggest joys in my life.”
Davis also reached out directly to others living through cancer, writing, “For those of you on a similar journey to mine, I do wish you well. Cancer asks a lot from us, physically and mentally. And we all get to do it however we choose.”
Fans Rally Around Lucy Davis After Her Cancer Revelation
The announcement was quickly met with an outpouring of support from fans, friends and people who have worked with Davis.
British broadcaster Piers Morgan shared, “Lucy, this is such devastating news. I’m so sorry. Your courage in talking about this so honestly says everything about you. Sending you and your family all my love and support. X”
A fan, living with the same stage of the disease, offered a hopeful message: “Praying you will see this, Lucy, as I have stage IV breast cancer and have lived with it now for nearly 8 years. There are some chronic cancer guys and gals out here 💕 Sending you lots of love at what must be a horrendous time xxx”
Another person who had worked with Davis wrote, “Oh Lucy 🩵 you are such a rare gift of a human, artist, comedian. Your perspective on this alone shows that.”
Fans also remembered the roles that made Davis beloved to viewers. “Dawn from the office 🙁 ❤️,” one wrote, while another shared, “Sending much love❤️ loved you in shaun of the dead and many more. Keeping you in my thoughts ❤️👏”
“Lucy you are one of the strongest and funniest people I have ever EVER met. I miss you so very much and your pranks too. You have inspired me time and time again, and every memory I have with you is one filled with so much laughter. Sending you every single ounce of love I am capable of giving 🩷⚡️”, wrote actor Reed Horstmann.
One longtime admirer reflected on Davis’ role as Hilda Spellman in “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina,” writing, “I’ve always admired you, but reading your words today has made me admire you even more. Your strength, your honesty, your humour and the way you choose to look at life are incredibly moving.”
Another fan added, “In my heart I’m sending you hugs … and we reminisce about the fun we had on Villains and working with such amazing actors and the family that show created. You are an amazing woman that stands tall and proud and thank you for being a beacon.❤️”
Another person who appeared to know Davis personally summed up the affection surrounding her announcement: “Lucy you are one of the strongest and funniest people I have ever EVER met. I miss you so very much and your pranks too. You have inspired me time and time again, and every memory I have with you is one filled with so much laughter.”
If you or someone you know is facing a cancer diagnosis, support is available. The American Cancer Society offers a 24/7 cancer helpline at 1-800-227-2345, where trained specialists can provide information, guidance and access to resources.
The National Cancer Institute’s Cancer Information Service can also be reached at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237) Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET.
