The enduring bond between the stars of the iconic television series “Charlie’s Angels” has provided an invaluable source of support as they each grappled with personal health challenges. Cheryl Ladd, Jaclyn Smith, and Kate Jackson, the leading ladies of the show, have opened up about their journeys with breast cancer, sharing how their sisterhood has been instrumental in navigating these terrifying experiences.
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Recently, during the programme’s 50th-anniversary celebration at PaleyFest in Los Angeles, Ladd publicly revealed her recent battle with breast cancer, marking her as the third surviving Angel to face the disease. Ladd, 74, disclosed that she first received her diagnosis nearly three years ago. In her moment of need, she turned to her fellow Angels, Smith, 80, and Jackson, 77, both of whom had previously encountered similar health battles.
Smith was first diagnosed in 2002, while Jackson initially faced breast cancer in 1987, enduring a recurrence two years later. The shared experiences of these women fostered a profound connection that they described as a “sisterhood.” “Whether it was the first year with Farrah [Fawcett] or the second year with Cheryl, the three of us are the only ones who had that shared experience,” Jackson explained, illustrating the unique understanding they have for one another.
For Ladd, the realisation that something was amiss came while she was taking a shower, when she discovered a lump in her left breast. After discussing her concerns with her husband, music producer Brian Russell, she was urged to seek immediate medical attention. Following a biopsy that confirmed a highly aggressive form of breast cancer, doctors recommended she begin oral chemotherapy the very next day. The treatment journey proved difficult, with Ladd losing her hair and eyelashes. “I looked like an alien,” she recalled, but her husband’s unwavering support offered her comfort through the ordeal.
To assist her through these tough times, Smith provided a range of wigs from her own line. “Jaclyn would be like, ‘Oh! I have a new one. I’m going to send it to you,’” Ladd reminisced fondly of the support she received. Smith regarded Ladd’s resilience as admirable, noting, “Her husband is outstanding, and she had support from her daughters. That’s what you need.”
The bonds of support were equally potent when it came to Jackson’s experience. Smith was one of the first people she reached out to after her diagnosis. She described how Smith was right by her side during her lumpectomy, demonstrating the genuine care and companionship that define their relationship. Upon her own diagnosis in 2002, Smith drew upon Jackson’s experiences as a source of strength. “It’s this club you don’t want to be a member of, but when you are, there’s a compassion and understanding,” Smith noted, referring to the unique connection forged between those who face similar health challenges.
Today, all three women have triumphed over cancer and are keen to share their stories in an effort to motivate others to remain vigilant about their health. “If you feel anything — even the tiniest thing — go to the doctor right away,” Ladd advised, encouraging individuals to be proactive about their health and not let fear prevent them from seeking help.
As they continue their respective journeys in health and wellness, the shared experiences of these three remarkable women remain a powerful reminder of the strength found in companionship and support during the most challenging of times. Their story not only underscores their resilience but also exemplifies the importance of community in facing life’s struggles, particularly when it comes to health.
As their stories resonate with many, readers can delve deeper into the lives and experiences of Ladd, Smith, and Jackson in the newest issue of PEOPLE magazine, hitting stands this Friday.