'Star Trek' legend William Shatner and his daughter Melanie Shatner have spoken candidly about their separate battles with Stage 4 cancer, revealing how the life-changing diagnoses strengthened their family and transformed their outlook on life.
In a joint interview with PEOPLE, the father and daughter shared details of their cancer journeys, their treatment and how they are now cancer-free.
William Shatner and Melanie Shatner reveal their Stage 4 cancer diagnoses
According to PEOPLE, Melanie Shatner was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer after discovering a lump in her breast in 2022.
William Shatner, 95, later faced his own health scare after noticing a lump on his cheek in 2023. He was subsequently diagnosed with Stage 4 malignant melanoma.
Recalling the moment, the actor said: "I went to an oncologist ... and they operated almost immediately with Stage 4 melanoma."
Melanie Shatner recalls emotional conversation with her father
Melanie admitted that the diagnosis left her fearing the worst. Recalling the difficult moment, she said: "I called you, and I said, 'I think I'm dying.'"
Shatner praised the strength of their family as they navigated the challenging period together.
"We're in a very together family. We're bonded by all kinds of difficulties that we overcame. And who knows what else we're going to overcome."
What is Stage 4 melanoma?
According to the National Cancer Institute, Stage 4 melanoma is an advanced form of skin cancer that has spread from its original site to distant parts of the body.
While the condition was once associated with a poor prognosis, advances in immunotherapy and targeted treatments have significantly improved survival rates and outcomes for many patients.
William Shatner and Melanie Shatner on life after cancer
Now cancer-free, both William and Melanie say their experiences have changed the way they view life.
Reflecting on his journey, Shatner said: "It's these miracles of life. If you let them go by, you lose your joy of living."
Melanie echoed his sentiments, adding: "It changed my life, all for the better."
William Shatner and Melanie Shatner launch new podcast
Following their recovery, William and Melanie Shatner are launching a weekly podcast, No Time But Now, where they will speak with healthcare experts, survivors and guests about health, resilience and finding purpose after life's biggest challenges.
Inputs from TOI
