(JTA) — Julia Louis-Dreyfus, an American television actress who gained fame on the hit series “Seinfeld,” was diagnosed as suffering from breast cancer.
Louis-Dreyfus, whose paternal grandfather was Jewish, broke the news Thursday on Twitter.
“1 in 8 women get breast cancer. Today, I’m the one,” wrote Louis-Dreyfus, who portrayed Elaine Benes on the hugely popular sitcom. She currently stars in the HBO comedy “Veep,” for which she has won a record six consecutive Emmy Awards playing the role of Selina Meyer.
“The good news is that I have the most glorious group of supportive and caring family and friends, and fantastic insurance through my union,” the 56-year-old actress continued. “The bad news is that not all women are so lucky, so let’s fight all cancers and make universal health care a reality.”
Her revelation prompted an outpouring of sympathy on social networks from many film and television stars, including breast cancer survivors Rita Wilson and Christina Applegate, the New York Post reported.
“Your undaunted spirit has always been an inspiration to your family at HBO. Sending our love and support,” the network posted on Twitter.
Louis-Dreyfus has been married to Brad Hall, like her a former cast member on “Saturday Night Live,” for 20 years. They have two sons, Charlie and Henry.
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