Jenna Fischer, beloved for her role in The Office, recently revealed her battle with breast cancer in a heartfelt Instagram post. The actress, 50, shared that she was diagnosed with stage 1 triple-positive breast cancer in December 2023. Thankfully, after undergoing surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, she is now cancer-free.
Fischer admitted she “never thought” she would be making such an announcement, but felt inspired to share her story during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Reflecting on her journey, she posted a picture of herself with a coffee mug, smiling despite the trials she faced. “I wanted a photo of myself in my patchy pixie looking happy and healthy,” she explained, thanking Angela Kinsey’s husband, Josh Snyder, for capturing the moment. She added, “It’s just one example of the care they showed me during this journey.”
In October 2023, Fischer posted a lighthearted photo before her routine mammogram, jokingly reminding followers to “take care of your ticking time bags” in true Office fashion. However, the results of her mammogram were inconclusive, leading to further tests, including an ultrasound and biopsy, which confirmed her diagnosis. Despite the aggressiveness of her cancer, Fischer remained optimistic, noting it is “highly responsive to treatment.”
View this post on Instagram
In January, she underwent a lumpectomy, successfully removing the tumor. Although the cancer hadn’t spread, Fischer endured 12 rounds of chemotherapy starting in February, followed by radiation in June to ensure it wouldn’t return. “I lost my hair during chemotherapy, but thanks to some great wigs and hats, my family affectionately called ‘Wigats,’ I’ve been able to keep this private until now,” she wrote.
Fischer emphasized the importance of regular mammograms, sharing that her tumor was so small it couldn’t be felt through a physical exam. “If I had waited six months longer, things could have been much worse,” she warned.
Throughout her journey, Fischer credited her support system, which included family, friends, and her medical team. She gave special thanks to her Office Ladies podcast co-host and friend, Angela Kinsey, who helped her maintain a sense of normalcy during treatments. “When I lost my hair, she wore hats to our work meetings so I wouldn’t be the only one,” Fischer shared.
Despite the challenges, Fischer remained resilient and continued to work, thanks to the incredible support from her loved ones. She concluded her message with gratitude for her husband, Lee Kirk, who stood by her side throughout the grueling treatments. After completing her final chemo and radiation sessions, the family celebrated by ringing a bell in their backyard, surrounded by confetti and joy.
Fischer ended her post on a hopeful note, sharing that she had recently been re-screened and is happy to report she remains cancer-free.
