Summary:

Eric Braeden, legendary actor behind The Young and the Restless‘ Victor Newman, opened up about his 2023 battle with bladder cancer and his ongoing journey of strength, passion, and purpose. He confirmed he is cancer-free, has no plans to retire, and credits his longtime marriage for grounding him. With renewed energy, Eric continues portraying Victor in high-stakes storylines on the soap.

 Soap Legend Faces a Real-Life Battle

Eric Braeden, known to millions as Victor Newman, faced a deeply personal challenge in 2023.

At 83 years old, Braeden revealed he had been diagnosed with bladder cancer.

Rather than retreat from the spotlight, Eric chose to be open and vulnerable, updating fans throughout his treatment journey—with humor, honesty, and grace.

 A Victory Shared with Fans

In August 2023, after undergoing treatment, Braeden shared uplifting news on Facebook:

“As of a few days ago, I’m cancer-free. They couldn’t find the damn thing.”

This moment was a powerful triumph not only for him but also for his fans who stood by him.

 Dancing, Positivity, and a Fierce “No” to Retirement

Eric celebrated life with a video of himself dancing to the 90s hit “Missing”—smiling and energetic.

His caption:

“Feeling better and better. Feff cancer.”

Despite whispers about retirement, Braeden made his stance clear in a fiery August 2023 interview with Fox News:

“No, hell no. No. No.”

 Acting: More Than a Job—A Calling

Braeden explained that he’s not ready to walk away from acting.

He’s watched friends retire only to face boredom and a loss of purpose.

“I simply love what I do… The satisfaction after a good scene—that’s what keeps me going.”

For Eric, acting is fuel for the soul.

 The Woman Behind the Man: Dale Russell Gudegast

Eric credits his wife of over 50 years, Dale Russell Gudegast, as his rock.

Their marriage, rooted in mutual admiration, deep respect, and real friendship, has weathered decades of fame and personal trials.

Their bond remains a shining example of love, strength, and partnership.

 What’s Next for Victor Newman?

On The Young and the Restless, Victor Newman remains central to the drama.

From guiding the Newman family through crises to battling corporate foes, his storyline is only heating up—especially as Nikki’s addiction intensifies and enemies close in.

With Eric’s renewed health, fans can relax knowing:

Victor Newman isn’t going anywhere.

 Final Note

Eric Braeden is cancer-free, not retiring, and still reigniting scenes with power and purpose.

Thanks for reading this update from Trench Street.
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit that bell icon for more inspiring soap stories.