William Shatner and daughter Melanie share emotional stage 4 cancer journey

William Shatner and his daughter Melanie Shatner Gretsch have opened up about an incredibly difficult chapter in their lives.

Melanie was first diagnosed with HER2-positive stage 4 breast cancer in July 2022 after discovering a small lump despite having received a clear mammogram just months earlier.

During one particularly difficult night while undergoing chemotherapy Melanie recalled calling her father in tears convinced she was dying. Within minutes Shatner arrived at her home to comfort her.

"He gave me what I think of as a 'daddy bear hug,'" Melanie said recalling how he reassured her that the illness would one day become only a memory.

Just as Melanie was nearing the end of her treatment the family faced another devastating blow.

In June 2023 Shatner was diagnosed with stage 4 malignant melanoma after a growing lump on his cheek.

"They said, 'You got cancer. If you came in later, you would have been dead,'" Shatner recalled. "I think the universe is taking care of me."

His treatment included surgery followed by two years of immunotherapy allowing him to continue working throughout much of his recovery.

By late 2024 both father and daughter were declared cancer-free.

Their shared experience has inspired a new mission. On July 29 the pair will launch the weekly podcast No Time but Now where they will speak with medical experts, cancer survivors and wellness advocates about resilience, healing and living with purpose.

"It changed my life. I'm not so afraid anymore, and there's so much freedom and joy," Melanie said reflecting on her cancer journey.

For Shatner the experience reinforced the importance of gratitude and family.

"I'm aware of the magic of it all," he said, adding that spending time with his daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren now means more than ever.