Christy Carlson Romano Reveals Positive Cancer Screening Results

The 'Even Stevens' star is fighting her insurance company to cover a PET scan as her next steps.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Actress Christy Carlson Romano, known for her roles in Disney Channel shows like 'Even Stevens' and 'Kim Possible', revealed in an emotional Instagram video that she received positive results from a recent cancer screening. While her husband's screening came back negative, Romano's did not, indicating she may have 'stagable cancer'. The actress shared that her next steps are to undergo a PET scan, but she is currently fighting her insurance company to have the procedure covered.

Why it matters

Romano's announcement highlights the ongoing challenges many people face in accessing and affording proper cancer screening and treatment, even for those with a public profile. Her story also serves as a reminder of the prevalence of cancer and the importance of early detection.

The details

In the video, Romano got emotional when referring to the recent passing of 'Dawson's Creek' star James Van Der Beek, who died earlier this month at the age of 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer. Romano noted that Van Der Beek and his family were 'pillars of the community' in Texas, where she lives, and were always raising money for charities. The actress also reflected on a separate incident about a year ago where she was shot in the eye by 'another party' during her husband's birthday celebration, leaving a fragment stuck behind her eye. She shared how grateful she is to be alive after that experience.

  • On Tuesday, Romano shared the emotional Instagram video announcing her positive cancer screening results.
  • Earlier this month, actor James Van Der Beek passed away at the age of 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer.

The players

Christy Carlson Romano

An actress known for her roles in popular Disney Channel shows such as 'Even Stevens' and 'Kim Possible'.

Brendan Rooney

Christy Carlson Romano's husband.

James Van Der Beek

An actor known for his role in the TV series 'Dawson's Creek' who passed away earlier this month at the age of 48 after a battle with colorectal cancer.

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What they’re saying

“My husband's came back completely negative. Mine did not back negative. So basically what that means is that I may have stagable cancer.”

— Christy Carlson Romano, Actress (Instagram)

“I kind of was in disbelief about it, because I was filming, and I was so happy to be back on set, and I didn't want to really think about it much.”

— Christy Carlson Romano, Actress (Instagram)

“With everything that happened, all I can think about is how grateful I am to be alive. I love my daughters, husband, family, and friends so much. I saw my life flash before my eyes and I'm telling you, hug the people around you every chance you can. Life can change in an instant.”

— Christy Carlson Romano, Actress (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Romano's story highlights the ongoing challenges many people face in accessing and affording proper cancer screening and treatment, even for those with a public profile. Her experience also serves as a reminder of the prevalence of cancer and the importance of early detection.