Beloved NCIS star Pauley Perrette has revealed she is battling stage 3 lung cancer, using her platform to raise awareness about the disease’s stigma and the importance of early detection.

In a shocking revelation that has left fans and friends reeling, Pauley Perrette, beloved for her role as the quirky forensic scientist Abby Sciuto on the hit television series NCIS, has publicly announced her battle with stage three lung cancer.

The 56-year-old actress, known for her gothic style and fierce intelligence, shared her diagnosis at a recent charity event in Los Angeles aimed at supporting terminal cancer patients.

Perrette, who captivated audiences for 15 years on NCIS, appeared at the event looking frail and vulnerable, a stark contrast to the vibrant character that made her a household name.

Her once-lustrous black hair is now thinning, and her pale skin and slender frame reveal the toll that her illness has taken. Despite her physical decline, Perrette’s spirit remains unbroken, as evidenced by the warmth and determination in her eyes.

“I’ve been in the spotlight for so long, it’s time to use the rest of that light to shine a light on others who are going through the same darkness,” she said, her voice occasionally faltering as she struggled with shortness of breath.

The audience, filled with supporters and fellow advocates, fell silent as they absorbed her words, realizing the gravity of her situation.

The actress, who left NCIS in 2018, has since dedicated her life to social activism, focusing on issues such as animal rights and homelessness. However, no one could have predicted that she would find herself facing a life-and-death battle of her own.

Friends revealed that Perrette began experiencing fatigue and persistent shortness of breath in late 2024, initially attributing it to stress and chronic lung issues.

It wasn’t until chest pain became unbearable that she sought medical attention, leading to a devastating diagnosis: stage 3A non-small cell lung cancer.

“This isn’t just a battle for my health; it’s a fight for awareness,” Perrette emphasized during her speech. “Lung cancer is often stigmatized as a smoker’s disease, but that isn’t the case for many of us. We need to change the narrative.”

The diagnosis has forced Perrette to undergo aggressive treatment, including chemotherapy and radiation. Friends report that she has been hospitalized multiple times due to the side effects of treatment, which include severe nausea, hair loss, and debilitating exhaustion.

“There are days when she can’t even get out of bed,” a close friend shared. “But when she receives an email from a young cancer patient, she finds the strength to respond with words of encouragement.”

Despite her struggles, Perrette remains committed to her advocacy work. She has partnered with the organization Longstrong to launch the “Don’t Blame, Just Fight” campaign, which aims to shift public perception of lung cancer patients.

“We need to remind people that cancer does not discriminate,” she stated. “It doesn’t matter if you’ve smoked or not; we all deserve compassion and support.”

In her efforts to raise awareness, Perrette has also appeared in a promotional video advocating for regular CT scans of the lungs. “Early detection can save lives,” she insists. “The lungs have no voice. You have to be the one to speak for them.”

Her emotional journey has resonated deeply with fans, many of whom have taken to social media to express their support.

In a heartfelt tweet, Perrette wrote, “I don’t know how much time I have left, but I do know that I will use every second to remind everyone to get checked out.”

The outpouring of love and encouragement from her followers has been overwhelming, with many sharing their own stories of resilience and hope.

As she battles this formidable opponent, Perrette’s unwavering spirit serves as an inspiration to many. “Pauley has always been a fighter,” a fellow actress and friend remarked.

“If anyone can turn this around, it’s her. She’s using her platform to make a difference, and that’s what makes her a true hero.”

The news of Perrette’s illness has sparked conversations about the importance of health awareness and the need for greater understanding of lung cancer.

Advocates are hopeful that her story will encourage others to seek medical attention sooner rather than later, emphasizing that early intervention can make all the difference.

In the face of adversity, Pauley Perrette is not just a survivor; she is a warrior. Her journey, filled with challenges and triumphs, reflects the strength of the human spirit.

As she continues to fight for her health and the health of others, her legacy as an actress and advocate will undoubtedly inspire generations to come.

Fans and supporters are encouraged to send their prayers and messages of encouragement as Perrette navigates this difficult chapter in her life. “Let us know what you think about Pauley Perrette’s health,” she urged in her address. “Your support means the world to me.”

As the curtain falls on this chapter, one thing is clear: Pauley Perrette’s light will continue to shine brightly, illuminating the path for others facing similar battles.

With her fierce determination and compassionate heart, she is poised to make a lasting impact, both on and off the screen.