Michael Richards, best known for portraying the quirky and beloved character Cosmo Kramer in the iconic American sitcom Seinfeld, recently opened up about a significant health challenge he faced in past years. The actor detailed the personal encounter in his upcoming memoir, Entrances and Exits.
In a recent interview with PEOPLE magazine, the 74-year-old actor candidly revealed that in 2018, during what he thought would be a routine medical check-up, his doctors discovered he had prostate cancer. The diagnosis came as a shocking and alarming revelation for Richards, who had not experienced any symptoms that might have suggested such a serious illness.
Michael Richards speaks about his prostate cancer diagnosis
Richards shared the deeply personal journey he underwent upon learning of his cancer diagnosis. Initially overwhelmed by the gravity of the news, he found himself grappling with feelings of resignation, unsure of how to confront the daunting reality before him.
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However, amidst the turmoil of emotions, a thought about his 9-year-old son’s future pierced through the haze of despair. His desire to witness his son grow and thrive sparked a profound shift within him, and he made a conscious decision to defy the odds stacked against him.
at the Television Academy’s 70th Anniversary Celebration Gala, Television Academy, North Hollywood, CA 06-02-16
The 74-year-old shared that after receiving his diagnosis, his doctor’s assessment painted a bleak picture, indicating that the cancer had already advanced significantly and posed a grave threat to his health. In light of the severity of the situation, Richard revealed that his physician strongly recommended the complete removal of his prostate gland as the most effective course of action to halt the cancer’s progression.
The actor added that he didn’t hesitate; he bravely opted to proceed with the surgery, recognizing it as his best chance for survival as his prognosis was dire, with a life expectancy of merely eight months without the procedure.