Lucy Davis’ sad announcement about her terminal cancer diagnosis yesterday has sparked an industry-wide outpouring of support.
However, one of her former co-stars, Ricky Gervais, is now facing online criticism over his response and activities in the hours that followed. While Gervais did acknowledge Davis’ post, some fans took issue with his decision to return to promoting his own projects shortly after.
Gervais Showed Support for His Former ‘The Office’ Co-star
Since her revelation, several industry members have shown support for Davis, including Gervais.
Davis shared the heartbreaking news publicly on August 11. In the announcement, she explained that she had been diagnosed about 18 months earlier. The cancer has since spread to her bones, including her spine, right hip and ribs. She also said it is incurable.
While Gervais did not initially publish a separate post about Davis on his own pages, he responded directly to her Instagram announcement. The comedian left a heart emoji beneath Davis’ post, and she acknowledged this gesture by replying, “xxx.”
The pair’s connection dates back to “The Office,” where Gervais played David Brent, and Davis played Dawn Tinsley. Their time on the series helped make both actors familiar faces to viewers in the UK and beyond.
Davis’s announcement also made clear that she hopes to continue working, as acting remains one of the great joys in her life. She also explained that she does not want those around her to treat her only as someone who’s sick.
While Gervais’ heart emoji appeared to be a quiet public show of support, some fans took issue with his next post.
Fans Questioned Gervais’ Social Media Activity Hours After the Announcement
Several hours after Davis shared her announcement, Gervais returned to his usual social media activity. He promoted his YouTube channel, urging his followers on X to subscribe. “I do live broadcasts every Sunday on my YouTube channel. They’re mostly s***. Please subscribe anyway,” he wrote.
He also shared several posts connected to his Netflix series “Alley Cats”, including information about where to watch it. Some followers were less than impressed with the timing, and wasted no time letting him know.
“Bit tone deaf.” One critic wrote. “Former co-worker on one of the most successful pieces of work you’ve been involved in, revealed she is terminally ill, and you’re posting this stuff all evening.”
Another questioned why Gervais appeared to be focused on his promotion so soon after Davis’ announcement. “I knew you were out of touch and a narcissist, but you post this after the news about Lucy? F*** you.”
“F*** your cats,” a third commented. “Show some respect.”
However, the criticism did not represent every reaction to Gervais’ posts. Some followers continued engaging with his promotional content, without referencing Davis’ announcement.
Other ‘The Office’ Stars Have Rallied Around Davis Since Her Announcement
Gervais has not been the only person connected to “The Office” to reach out. Jenna Fischer also sent Davis a public message of support.
“Beautiful post. Love you lots,” Fischer wrote. She also backed Davis’ determination to keep acting, adding, “And yes to working with cancer!”
Fischer played Pam Beesly in the American version of “The Office.” Pam was based partly on Davis’ own character, Dawn Tineley, from the original British version.
Her response carried an additional personal connection. Back in 2024, Fischer revealed that she had been diagnosed with Stage 1 triple-positive breast cancer. She underwent treatment before later sharing that she was cancer-free.
Davis has also received support from people across other parts of her career. Her “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina” co-star Kiernan Shipka wrote, “I love you so much, Lucy.” Amanda Abbington, who worked with Davis on the 2010 ITV miniseries “Married Single Other,” sent her “the biggest cuddle.” She also informed Davis that she was there if the actress needed anything.
Other recognizable actors also added their support. Sarah Paulson described Davis as “Full of magic,” while Simon Helberg called her “An incredible force.”
Samantha Morton also shared a personal message. “Sending love and light and huge gratitude to you for being you and shining and making me belly laugh at workshop when things were so tough,” she wrote.
