John Hurt Reveals He Has Pancreatic Cancer

John Hurt Reveals He Has Pancreatic Cancer
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 17: John Hurt attends a Memorial Service for Sir Richard Attenborough at Westminster Abbey on March 17, 2015 in London, England. (Photo by Eamonn McCormack/WireImage)
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 17: John Hurt attends a Memorial Service for Sir Richard Attenborough at Westminster Abbey on March 17, 2015 in London, England. (Photo by Eamonn McCormack/WireImage)

"Elephant Man" star Sir John Hurt has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, reports the BBC.

"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," the 75-year-old said in a statement to Press Association. "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."

Hurt went on to say that he will continue with his professional commitments and that his next project is recording "Jeffrey Bernard Is Unwell" for BBC Radio 4. The irony of the title, he said, was not lost on him.

The Oscar-nominated British actor, who was knighted on New Year's Day, has had a long and varied career, but is perhaps best known for playing Joseph Merrick ("John" in the film) in "The Elephant Man," as well as roles in "Alien," "Midnight Express," and the last two "Harry Potter" movies.

The actor will next be seen in director David Yates' new "Tarzan" movie, which is expected to hit theaters in July 2016.

Popular in the Community

Close

What's Hot