Walking Dead actor Erik Jensen issues statement, reveals he continued working after cancer diagnosis

Walking Dead famed Erik Jensen recently revealed that he was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer, according to the GoFundMe page created by his family. It stated that the actor’s illness "has metastasized to his liver." However, they described him as "young and strong" and said he continued to work as a writer and director while undergoing treatment.

Erik Jensen issues a statement 

In a statement shared with USA TODAY, Jensen said, “I am resilient; I will continue working as an actor/writer through this fight, and I plan to come out the other side of this stronger. I have an enormous amount of gratitude for the friends and strangers who’ve come together to support my family as we beat cancer.”

The Centers for Disease Control defines colorectal cancer as "a disease in which cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control," which includes both colon and rectal cancer. In order to cover treatment costs and provide for the family while 53-year-old Jensen is unemployed for his recuperation, his wife Jessica Blank is attempting to raise $300,000.

Erik Jensen: A brain aneurysm survivor

The family had already raised more than $90,000 as of October 25—nearly one-third of their target. Less than two years have passed since Jensen, experienced a subarachnoid hemorrhage, also known as a brain aneurysm.  Jensen was working on a play at home in February 2022 when he began to feel a little apprehensive. Amazingly, Jensen recovered completely and returned to work in just four weeks.

Jensen and his spouse Jessica live without the cushion that long-term commercial work can provide, as they are full-time freelance artists. Their family's financial situation is extremely precarious due to Erik's aneurysm, the double strikes, and this diagnosis. They need a lot of help to get through the next year, pay for Erik's cancer treatment, keep their home, and provide some stability for their 13-year-old daughter Sadie.

Jensen played the role of Dr Steven Edwards on season five of The Walking Dead, and also starred in shows like Mr. Robot and For Life.