Eric Braeden Opens Up About Cancer, Health, and His Future on The Young and the Restless
2023 proved to be one of the most challenging and deeply personal years for soap opera icon Eric Braeden, best known for his legendary role as Victor Newman on The Young and the Restless. At 83 years old, Braeden confronted a battle that tested not just his body, but his spirit—and much like the character he’s played since 1980, he met the challenge head-on with strength, resilience, and unwavering determination.
A Real-Life Battle Worthy of a Soap Opera Plot
Fans were stunned when Braeden publicly revealed that he had been diagnosed with bladder cancer. Instead of retreating from the spotlight, he made the courageous decision to bring his supporters along on his journey. Through social media, he shared updates from hospital visits, treatment sessions, and his emotional ups and downs. He did so with grace, humor, and incredible transparency—further endearing himself to the millions who’ve admired his work for decades.
In August 2023, Braeden delivered the news his fans had been praying for. In a triumphant Facebook Live session, he beamed with gratitude and relief:
“I just wanted you to know that as of a few days ago, I’m cancer-free. They couldn’t find the damn thing.”
It was a moment of celebration, not only for Braeden but for his entire fanbase, who had followed his battle with admiration and hope.
Dancing Through Recovery—and Shutting Down Retirement Rumors
While many survivors grapple with the looming fear of recurrence, Braeden is choosing to live boldly and joyfully. Just months after his “cancer-free” announcement, he posted a cheerful video of himself dancing to the 90s hit “Missing” by Everything But the Girl, smiling wide and captioning it with:
“Feeling better and better. F** cancer.”*
With fans celebrating his recovery, questions soon began circulating online: Was Eric Braeden preparing to retire from The Young and the Restless? After all, he’d been part of the show for over four decades, and his recent health scare seemed like a natural cue for some well-earned rest.
But Braeden’s response was classic Victor Newman:
“No. Hell no. No.”
In a fiery interview with Fox News, the soap legend shut down the rumors with conviction. Retirement, he said, was not even on his radar.
Passion, Purpose, and the Power of Love
Having appeared in nearly 100 television shows and films over his storied career, Braeden remains deeply devoted to acting.
“The deeper reason is I simply love what I do. I still get a thrill from acting. The satisfaction after a good scene—that’s what keeps me going,” he shared.
While the steady paycheck doesn’t hurt, it’s the passion for storytelling and the connection with his audience that continues to fuel him.
At his side through it all is his wife of over 50 years, Dale Russell Gudegast. Their enduring marriage has stood the test of time, strengthened by mutual respect, admiration, and deep friendship.
“It’s not just about putting up with each other,” Braeden once said. “It’s about truly liking and respecting the person you’re with.”
Their bond remains an inspiration not only to fans but also to their peers in the entertainment world.
What’s Next for Victor Newman?
On The Young and the Restless, Victor Newman is far from taking a backseat. He remains a central force on the canvas—navigating corporate chaos, managing family drama, and now supporting Nikki Newman through her battle with addiction. With enemies circling and the Newman legacy at stake, the stakes have never been higher.
With Eric Braeden healthy and re-energized, fans can rest assured: Victor Newman isn’t going anywhere.
