Christy Carlson Romano, the Emmy-nominated actress best known for her starring role as Ren Stevens in the Disney Channel series Even Stevens (2000–2003), has revealed that she recently received a positive cancer diagnosis following a routine medical screening.
The 40-year-old actress shared the news publicly on Tuesday, February 18, 2026, via an emotional video posted to her Instagram account. In the clip, Romano appeared composed but visibly shaken as she explained that doctors detected cancer during a standard check-up earlier this month.
“I got some news that no one wants to hear,” she said in the video. “My recent screening came back positive for cancer. I’m still processing everything, but I wanted to be honest with all of you because you’ve been with me through so much of my journey.”
Romano did not specify the type or stage of the cancer in her initial announcement, stating only that she is “working closely with an incredible team of doctors” and has already begun planning her treatment. She emphasized that the diagnosis was caught early thanks to proactive screening, which she credited with giving her the best possible chance for a full recovery.
“I’m choosing to face this head-on with faith, strength, and the love and support of my family and friends,” she continued. “I’m going to fight like hell, just like I’ve always done.”
The actress, who earned an Emmy nomination in 2003 for Outstanding Performer in a Children’s Series for Even Stevens, has maintained a steady presence in entertainment over the years. She has appeared in Broadway productions (Les Misérables, Avenue Q), voiced Kim Possible in the Disney animated series and films, and released music, including her 2004 album Greatest Disney Princess Hits. More recently, she has focused on family life, podcasting (Vulnerable), and occasional acting roles while raising four children with her husband, Brendan Rooney.
Romano’s announcement has drawn an outpouring of support from fans, former co-stars, and fellow celebrities. Messages flooded her social media from Brenda Song, Shia LaBeouf (her Even Stevens co-star), Christy Carlson Romano’s Disney Channel contemporaries, and many others wishing her strength and a speedy recovery.
Her Even Stevens castmate Nick Spano posted: “Sending you all the love and prayers, Christy. You’ve always been a fighter. We’ve got you.”
The news also renewed calls for regular cancer screenings, particularly among younger adults. Romano encouraged her followers to prioritize preventive health checks, writing in the caption: “Please don’t wait. Get screened. Early detection saves lives. I’m proof of that.”
Romano has asked for privacy as she begins treatment but promised to keep fans updated when she feels ready. She concluded her video by saying: “I’m not done yet. There’s still so much more to do, more love to give, more stories to tell. Thank you for being part of my story.”
No further medical details have been released, and Romano’s representatives have not responded to requests for additional comment as of Wednesday evening.
The actress’s openness about her diagnosis has been praised by health advocates, who note that public figures sharing cancer journeys often encourage higher screening rates and reduce stigma around the disease.
Fans and the entertainment community continue to rally around Romano, sending messages of hope and solidarity as she faces this new challenge.
