Jeff Bridges announces lymphoma diagnosis
Jeff Bridges came close to death in 2021 when he contracted COVID-19. Photo: Getty
Actor Jeff Bridges has announced on Twitter that he has been diagnosed with lymphoma.
He started his post off with a reference to The Big Lebowski, writing: “As the Dude would say… New sh–t has come to light.”
“I have been diagnosed with lymphoma. Although it is a serious disease, I feel fortunate that I have a great team of doctors and the prognosis is good,” Bridges continued.
“I’m starting treatment and will keep you posted on my recovery.”
In a second tweet to the same thread, Bridges thanked his supporters and encouraged them to vote in November’s US presidential election, linking to the website Vote.org.
“I’m profoundly grateful for the love and support from my family and friends. Thank you for your prayers and well wishes,” Bridges tweeted.
“While I have you, please remember to go vote. Because we are all in this together.”
Tweet from @TheJeffBridges
FX, Touchstone Television, Hulu and FXP responded to the news with a statement: “Our thoughts go out to Jeff and his family during this challenging time and they have our love and support.
“We wish him a safe and full recovery. And, as Jeff always says, ‘We are all in this together.’ Jeff, we are all in this together with you.”
Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system, which is the body’s network that fights off diseases.
The lymphatic system includes the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus gland and bone marrow.
Though Bridges did not specify which kind of lymphoma he was diagnosed with, there are two main types: Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
Lymphoma treatment usually involves chemotherapy, various medications, radiation therapy and, in rare cases, a stem cell transplant.
Bridges most recently appeared in Bad Times at the El Royale in 2018 and is in production for the TV miniseries The Old Man.
Bridges has been nominated for seven Academy Awards throughout his career, winning for Crazy Heart in 2010.