Hollyoaks and Strictly star Ali Bastian shares breast cancer diagnosis: “I will get through this”

As a seasoned movie-goer with a soft spot for British soap operas, I must say that Ali Bastian’s journey has moved me deeply. Having grown up watching her portray Becca Dean on Hollyoaks and later Becky Clarke on Doctors, it’s heartbreaking to see such a vibrant talent face the challenges of breast cancer.


Hollyoaks and Strictly Come Dancing alum Ali Bastian has revealed she has breast cancer.

The actor has been widely recognized among soap opera enthusiasts, having portrayed Becca Dean on Hollyoaks for over five years up until 2007, and later Becky Clarke on Doctors in 2019. Additionally, she participated in Strictly Come Dancing back in 2009.

As I sat down for an intimate chat with OK! Magazine, I shared my heartfelt journey after being diagnosed with stage two breast cancer. I took you, my dear fans, along on this emotional rollercoaster ride, revealing the moment I received the life-changing news and how my family and I have been navigating through this challenging time together.

She expressed surprise, saying, ‘It’s completely unexpected.’ There are times when I rise in the morning only to forget, and then it hits me again. I’m still struggling to make sense of it all.

In June, Bastian discovered a lump in her breast which she initially thought was a result of a “clogged milk duct” due to breastfeeding her baby. The news later confirmed this suspicion.

Regretfully, the biopsy results confirmed that the growth was indeed malignant. As Bastian listened to her doctor, she couldn’t help but notice a gentle sadness in her voice, yet she delivered the news compassionately.

She provided great comfort. She spoke words that I’ve been clinging to, words suggesting a genuine desire to heal me.

At present, the actress is receiving chemotherapy treatment and is scheduled for a single mastectomy. She mentioned to OK! that her medical team is contemplating a proactive double mastectomy, but as of now, no definitive choice has been made regarding this option.

Bastian expressed that it’s been incredibly tough for both her and her husband, yet she’s thankful for the encouragement she’s received from her ex-castmates Sarah Jayne Dunn, Carley Stenson, and Jodi Albert during these challenging times.

Bastian mentioned that Jodi was among the initial individuals he reached out to. To him, she, along with everyone else, is incredibly important.

Looking back at our time together on Hollyoaks, it’s been a blast! Yet, life has moved forward at an incredible pace since then – filled with ups, downs, and everything in between. Through it all, our friendships have remained steadfast. I can’t help but feel thankful for this strong bond we share.

Bastian expresses her intention to resume acting following her treatment, sharing with OK! that she truly yearns for it.

“I will get through this and come out the other side,” she added.

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2024-09-09 14:33