Victoria Jackson, the beloved Saturday Night Live (SNL) alum, has recently shared a poignant update regarding her health, revealing the recurrence of her cancer. In an emotional Instagram video posted on August 14, Jackson disclosed that after initially battling breast cancer in 2015, the disease has returned and is now inoperable. This news, delivered to her on her 65th birthday, August 2nd, was met with surprising equanimity by the actress.
Jackson recounted her conversation with doctors, explaining that they “cannot operate and cut out the marble in my chest that is laying on my windpipe, and eventually would suffocate me to death.” Despite the grim prognosis, Jackson’s interview with PEOPLE reveals a remarkable sense of acceptance and peace. “I was like, ‘Oh, okay. Well, that makes sense.’ How can you catch every molecule?” she remarked, demonstrating a pragmatic approach to her diagnosis. She further added, “I’m not good in science or math, but I expected it could come back. I kind of forgot about it for nine years. I forgot I had cancer.” This candidness provides insight into Jackson’s mindset as she confronts this challenging chapter.
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Jackson’s initial breast cancer diagnosis came in 2015 after she experienced a persistent cough following a stand-up performance in Nashville. Subsequent medical evaluations revealed stage 3C breast cancer, indicating that the cancer had spread to numerous lymph nodes. Her treatment at that time included chemotherapy, which she described as manageable, stating, “I didn’t really have nausea. It wasn’t so bad,” though acknowledging, “But it’s not like a picnic.” While it remains unclear if she achieved full remission after her first bout with cancer, Jackson is now facing her current health situation with proactive measures.
Currently under the care of Vanderbilt’s Breast Center in Nashville, Jackson has begun treatment with Palbociclib. This medication is designed to target breast cancer by inhibiting proteins that fuel cancer cell growth and division. According to Cancer Research UK, Palbociclib offers a targeted approach to managing the disease. Should Palbociclib prove ineffective, radiation therapy is considered as the next possible treatment avenue to combat the cancer cells and reduce tumor size. These treatments are aimed at extending Jackson’s time with her loved ones, including her husband Paul Wessell, her daughters Scarlet and Aubrey, and her cherished grandchildren.
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When her daughters and grandchildren visited, their concern prompted Jackson to reflect on her emotional state. “Are you sad? Are you scared?” they asked. Jackson’s response revealed a deep sense of fulfillment and acceptance. “Well, I’m not sad. … ‘Why am I not sad?’” she pondered. Her contentment stems from a life rich with experiences and meaningful connections. She expressed gratitude for witnessing her daughters’ childhoods and now actively participating in her grandchildren’s lives, ensuring she doesn’t miss any significant moments.
Jackson attributes her peace to having realized her life’s ambitions, from raising a family to experiencing the world. Her successful stint on SNL for six seasons, where she became known for her Weekend Update appearances and celebrity impersonations, was a significant career highlight. Looking ahead, Victoria Jackson embraces her future, whatever it may hold, with gratitude for a life well-lived. “Whether I die at 65, 70 or 75, what’s the difference?” she mused. “I’m so blessed to have had a long life and a wonderful life.” Her story is a testament to facing adversity with grace and appreciating the preciousness of life.
