Charlie's Angels Stars Cheryl Ladd, Jaclyn Smith, and Kate Jackson Open Up About Breast Cancer Battles

The legendary TV actresses reunited at PaleyFest to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their iconic show.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 5:06am

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A ghostly, translucent X-ray photograph revealing the intricate internal structures of a human breast, with glowing veins and tissue. The image has a clinical yet hopeful tone, conceptually representing the fight against breast cancer.The Charlie's Angels stars' openness about their breast cancer battles shines a light on the need for early detection and regular screenings.Los Angeles Today

Cheryl Ladd, 74, revealed at the PaleyFest event in Los Angeles that she had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer in the past. Her Charlie's Angels co-stars Jaclyn Smith and Kate Jackson also shared their own experiences battling the disease over the years. The three actresses emphasized the importance of early detection and regular breast cancer screenings.

Why it matters

The Charlie's Angels stars' openness about their breast cancer journeys helps raise awareness about this common disease that has impacted many women, including high-profile celebrities. Their stories underscore the need for regular mammograms and self-exams, as early detection is key to successful treatment.

The details

During the PaleyFest panel, Cheryl Ladd shared that her breast cancer was an 'aggressive form' but that she had 'wonderful doctors' who helped her through the experience. Ladd described it as a 'humbling' process, including losing her hair during treatment. Jaclyn Smith, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2002, revealed that the first thing she did was send Ladd wigs to help her through the experience. Kate Jackson was also diagnosed with breast cancer in 1987 and again in 1989.

  • Cheryl Ladd revealed her breast cancer diagnosis during the PaleyFest event in Los Angeles on April 6, 2026.
  • Jaclyn Smith was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2002.
  • Kate Jackson was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1987 and then again in 1989.

The players

Cheryl Ladd

A 74-year-old actress and singer who starred as one of the original Charlie's Angels on the iconic TV series.

Jaclyn Smith

An actress who played one of the original Charlie's Angels on the TV series and was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2002.

Kate Jackson

An actress who played one of the original Charlie's Angels on the TV series and was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1987 and 1989.

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What they’re saying

“Mine was an aggressive form. I had wonderful doctors.”

— Cheryl Ladd

“The first thing I did was send her my wigs. She was so brave.”

— Jaclyn Smith

“If you find a little something in your breasts...do not ignore it.”

— Cheryl Ladd

What’s next

The Charlie's Angels stars plan to continue using their platforms to raise awareness about the importance of breast cancer screening and early detection.

The takeaway

The personal stories shared by the Charlie's Angels actresses underscore the impact breast cancer has had on high-profile women, and highlight the need for all women to prioritize regular mammograms and self-exams to catch the disease early when it is most treatable.