Julia’s breast cancer battle
DIAGNOSED DAY AFTER EMMY WIN
ACTRESS JULIA Louis-Dreyfus revealed Thursday that she has breast cancer, tweeting her news along with a message about health care.
The “Veep” star posted on Twitter: “1 in 8 women get breast cancer. Today, I’m the one.”
The 56-year-old star’s note was positive, declaring she has “fantastic” insurance through her union and supportive friends and family. She was quick to point out that not everyone is in her position.
“The bad news is that not all women are so lucky, so let’s fight all cancers and make universal health care a reality,” the “Seinfeld” alum continued.
Louis-Dreyfus was diagnosed Sept. 18, a day after the Emmy Awards in Los Angeles, where she took home her sixth straight Emmy (photo), breaking the record for wins by an actress in the same role in a series. Louis-Dreyfus has eight Emmys overall.
The New York native didn’t say what stage cancer she has.
She has voiced political views on social media and most recently retweeted Jimmy Kimmel, urging people to protest the Graham-Cassidy bill to repeal Obamacare, which a nonpartisan congressional agency said would deprive millions of health coverage.
“Appalling,” she wrote of the bill, which has since died. “Take action.”
Louis-Dreyfus actress stars on “Veep,” the popular HBO political series, as Selina Meyer, and is perhaps best known for her role as Elaine on “Seinfeld.”
“Veep” is set to end next year with Season 7. Louis-Dreyfus’ diagnosis had no bearing in the decision, according to HBO.
“Our love and support go out to Julia and her family at this time. We have every confidence she will get through this with her usual tenacity and undaunted spirit, and look forward to her return to health and to HBO for the final season of ‘Veep,’ ” the network said in a statement.
The show’s production schedule will be adjusted to work with Louis-Dreyfus’ treatment. “Julia is incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support and well wishes,” HBO said.
Louis-Dreyfus’ father, billionaire businessman Gérard Louis-Dreyfus, died just days before the 2016 Emmys. She gave a heartfelt speech about him upon accepting her award that year.
“I’m so glad he liked ‘Veep’ because his opinion was the one that really mattered,” she said.