Comedian Jeff Ross Gets Diagnosis from Doctor with a Touch of Humour
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Comedian Jeff Ross, also known as the “roast master general” for his participation in celebrity roasts, recently shared a light-hearted moment during a serious time in his life. Ross, aged 59, revealed how his doctor delivered his colon cancer diagnosis with a touch of humour.
During his appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on June 18, Ross recounted the moment he received the news of his diagnosis and the subsequent removal of seven inches of his colon via laparoscopic surgery in the summer of 2024. His doctor broke the news to him with a quip, saying, “Jeff, the good news and bad news. The bad news is you’re going to need six months of chemo. The good news is you lost your hair a long time ago.”
Despite the gravity of the situation, Ross found humour in the situation and shared the experience openly. He admitted that he had never undergone a colonoscopy until a friend encouraged him to do so, leading to the discovery of a tumor in his colon. Reflecting on the diagnosis, Ross remarked, “You always think it’s never going to happen to you, and it happened to me.”
Maintaining his comedic spirit, Ross joked about his surgery, quipping, “Now I have a semicolon.” He also found material in the scars from his laparoscopic surgery, comparing himself to rapper 50 Cent with a humorous twist.
Ross is set to address his cancer journey in his upcoming one-man show, Jeff Ross: Take a Banana for the Ride, which will debut on Broadway this summer. In an interview with The Minnesota Star Tribune, he expressed his intention to incorporate his experience into his act, aiming to deliver a message of empowerment in tough times.
In addition to his battle with cancer, Ross recently faced a medical emergency due to a severe allergic reaction. Sharing the incident on Instagram in April 2025, he joked about his swollen appearance and the need to now carry an EpiPen. Despite the seriousness of the situation, Ross maintained his comedic outlook, likening himself to a child with a peanut allergy.
As he prepares for his Broadway show, Ross continues to use humour as a coping mechanism and a way to connect with his audience. His ability to find light in dark moments reflects his resilience and determination to navigate life’s challenges with a smile.
Fans of Jeff Ross can look forward to his upcoming performances, where they can expect a blend of laughter and candid reflections on his journey through illness and recovery. Through his comedy, Ross not only entertains but also inspires others to find joy in the face of adversity.