Cheryl Ladd, best known for her role on “Charlie’s Angels,” is baring her heart out with honesty. In a new interview, the beloved star is sharing the difficulties she faced during her breast cancer journey. In a recent interview with People magazine, the “Dancing With the Stars” alum reflected on the experience and the support that helped carry her through it.
A Diagnosis That Changed Everything
GettyShe revealed that it was her husband, Brian Russell, who gently encouraged her to seek medical attention when she first noticed something wasn’t right, a moment she now looks back on with appreciation.
GettyAfter a biopsy, Ladd learned she had a highly aggressive form of breast cancer and needed to begin treatment immediately.
She started oral chemotherapy the next day and later underwent radiation. During that time, she experienced visible changes, including the loss of her hair and eyelashes.
“I looked like an alien. My husband would say, ‘But, honey, a beautiful alien,’” she told People.
Husband Brian Russell’s Steady Support Through Treatment
GettyLadd fondly remembers that throughout her treatment, Russell remained a steady source of comfort and care, helping her navigate each stage with quiet support and kindness.
“He was so kind, and sometimes I didn’t have any kind of appetite, so he’d say, ‘How about I make you just a little tomato soup? Could you eat a little orange?” she said, recalling the small, thoughtful moments that helped her get through the toughest days.
She shared that his care went beyond words, offering steady support when she needed it most.
“He literally babied me along and kept me eating, so I didn’t just get skinnier and skinnier and skinnier.”
Through each stage of her treatment, she said his presence made a meaningful difference, helping her stay grounded and cared for.
“He kept me pretty close to my normal weight,” she continued. “He just cooked for me, encouraged me, and hugged me. I’m telling you, I sure married the right guy.”
Beyond her husband’s support, Ladd also leaned on her family, including her daughter, Jordan Ladd, and Russell’s daughter, Lindsay Walker, both of whom stayed close and offered encouragement throughout her recovery.
A Sisterhood of Strength and Moving Forward
GettyLadd also found comfort in her “Charlie’s Angels” co-stars, including Jaclyn Smith and Kate Jackson, both of whom have faced breast cancer, forming a bond rooted in shared experience and support.
“Talk about a sisterhood,” Ladd said. “The fact that all three of us have had cancer is kind of strange, but all of us are doing great.”
The trio recently reunited at a milestone celebration, where Ladd publicly spoke about her diagnosis for the first time. She also reflected on how Smith supported her throughout treatment with thoughtful gestures.
“I had so many wigs,” Ladd said, as reported by People. “Jaclyn would be like, ‘Oh! I have a new one. I’m going to send it to you. You want a short one first? Then [a longer one] as your hair grows out?’ She was just amazing.”
She also competed on “Dancing with the Stars” season 31, where she was partnered with Louis van Amstel and finished in 14th place.
Today, Ladd continues to prioritize her health, attending routine screenings and encouraging others to stay vigilant.
“The sooner you find it and get in there, the better chance you have of living and not losing your breast,” she said. “If you feel anything even the tiniest thing go to the doctor right away.”
Her story reflects both the challenges of her diagnosis and the strength she found through love, support and early action, offering a message that resonates far beyond her own experience.
