‘The Office’ star Lucy Davis reveals incurable cancer diagnosis: ‘I’m trying to live out whatever might be left of my life’

Actress Lucy Davis, known for her roles in The Office, Shaun of the Dead and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, has revealed that she was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer around a year and a half ago.

The 53-year-old actress shared the news in an Instagram post, saying the cancer has metastasised to her bones, including her spine, right hip and ribs. Davis said doctors have told her the cancer is incurable and that it is too late for chemotherapy.

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Davis said she initially noticed a “tiny lump” but did not want to have it checked. Sharing the experience publicly, she urged others not to ignore symptoms or delay seeking medical attention.

She wrote, “Hi friends, :) I wanted to share something with you all that I’ve kept to myself for a while but for various reasons would like to share now. A year and a half ago I was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer, which has metastasised to my bones. Specifically to my spine, right hip, and my ribs. The cancer is incurable, and too late for chemo.”

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Lucy Davis on living with cancer

Davis said she is now focused on making the most of whatever time she has left, while finding lessons in the experience.

“As of now, I’m trying to live out whatever might be left of my life in as fun a way as I possibly can. I always like to find the teachable moments in anything negative that happens. And cancer has not disappointed in that regard; there’s a lot I have learned from it, and I’m grateful for that,” she wrote.

The actress also spoke about the role humour has played in helping her cope with the diagnosis. She said she had asked her friends and family to continue making fun of her rather than treating her differently because of her illness.

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“The thing that has been most vital to me is humour. I asked my friends and family to make fun of me as much as possible (which they’re really good at) and, most importantly of all, to not treat me like a sick person. There’s nothing that will make you feel more unwell than being treated as if you’re unwell.”

Davis said she has made peace with what lies ahead and believes the situation will be harder for her family than it is for her.

“I’m not scared of whatever comes next. I’m at peace with it. I’ll see my Gracie sooner than expected, and for me, leaving my physical body just means going home.”

Despite her diagnosis, Davis said she wants to continue working for as long as possible. She also plans to continue her advocacy for animal rights.

She ended her message by sending her love to others facing similar circumstances, writing, “Much love to you all.”

Fans and friends rally around Lucy Davis

Davis' announcement drew an outpouring of support from friends, colleagues and fans.

Kiernan Shipka, who worked with Davis on Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, wrote, “I love you so much, Lucy,” while The Office co-creator Ricky Gervais responded with a heart emoji.

Jenna Fischer, Davis' fellow The Office star, wrote, “Beautiful post. Love you lots. And yes to working with cancer! Let’s spread that message far and wide! How working is such a comfort!”

Filmmaker Edgar Wright also shared his support, writing, “Love you, Lucy. Always. See you very soon.”

TV presenter Ulrika Jonsson wrote, “Heartbreaking to read but beautifully written and articulate. Wishing you so much love and laughter. We’re all just walking each other home.”

Several people living with terminal cancer also responded to Davis' post, sharing their own experiences and praising her for speaking openly about her diagnosis.

Who is Lucy Davis?

Lucy Davis is the daughter of comedian Jasper Carrott. She became widely known for playing Dawn Tinsley, the receptionist, in the original British version of The Office.

She also spent around a decade as a cast member of the long-running radio drama The Archers. Davis later appeared in films including Shaun of the Dead and gained a new generation of fans through her role in Netflix's Chilling Adventures of Sabrina.