Christy Carlson Romano Shares Emotional Health Update

Actress reveals her medical tests were 'not negative,' requiring further investigation

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Christy Carlson Romano, known for her roles in Disney's 'Even Stevens' and as the voice of 'Kim Possible,' shared in an emotional Instagram video that her recent medical tests were 'not negative,' requiring further investigation for potential signs of cancer, heart disease, and brain diseases. The 41-year-old actress, who resides in Austin, Texas, explained that while her husband's results were negative, her own tests necessitate additional screening.

Why it matters

Romano's announcement comes shortly after the death of actor James Van Der Beek, who passed away from colon cancer at age 48. The actress highlighted the prevalence of cancer in the community and the importance of proactive health screenings, especially given her family history of the disease.

The details

Romano and her husband, Brendan Rooney, underwent cancer screenings due to a family history of the illness. Both of Romano's parents have been diagnosed with cancer, with her father succumbing to the disease and her maternal grandmother passing away from lung cancer. While Rooney's results were negative, Romano's tests require further investigation for potential signs of cancer, heart disease, and brain diseases. The actress is now working to get the additional testing covered by her insurance.

  • On February 19, 2026, Christy Carlson Romano shared the emotional health update in an Instagram video.

The players

Christy Carlson Romano

A 41-year-old actress known for her roles in Disney's 'Even Stevens' and as the voice of 'Kim Possible'.

Brendan Rooney

Christy Carlson Romano's husband.

James Van Der Beek

An actor who passed away from colon cancer at age 48 on February 11, 2026.

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What they’re saying

“My husband's results were negative. My tests were not negative. I'm now going to be looked at further for signs of cancer, heart disease, and brain diseases. I'm now fighting with insurance companies to get this covered.”

— Christy Carlson Romano, Actress (Instagram)

“I live in Austin, and I met James Van Der Beek many times. His family is fantastic. He was a pillar in the community here in Texas. They did so much good, and now he's not with us anymore. Cancer is everywhere. That's why I took this test.”

— Christy Carlson Romano, Actress (Instagram)

“I'm sure some people consider I'm overreacting, but I'm not. Cancer is pretty serious, and I have two little girls.”

— Christy Carlson Romano, Actress (Instagram)

What’s next

Romano is now working to get the additional testing required by her 'not negative' results covered by her insurance.

The takeaway

Christy Carlson Romano's emotional health update highlights the importance of proactive health screenings, especially for those with a family history of cancer. Her story serves as a reminder of the prevalence of the disease and the need for compassion and support for those facing health challenges.