Rick Steves Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer

Rick Steves, the renowned American travel writer, guide book author, and longtime PBS host, revealed on Wednesday that he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

In a lengthy statement posted to social media, Steves, 69, shared his diagnosis and outlined his plans for the coming months.

"My doctor told me that 'if you're going to get cancer, this is a good kind to get,'" Steves said, noting that scans have so far shown no sign of it having spread. He did not disclose the stage of his cancer.

For the next few weeks, Steves will continue filming. His doctor has cleared him to work on two new TV shows in France over the next three weeks. He plans to return home to Edmonds, Washington, by mid-September.

Upon returning, Steves expects to undergo prostate surgery in late September, which will require a few days in the hospital. "I’ll likely get my surgery in late September, be laid up for a month, and—God willing—be cancer-free and back at it by the end of October," he said.

Steves credited his positive outlook, comparing his cancer diagnosis to "some amazing, really important trip." He asked fans for love, support, and any "travel tips" for his new journey.

Who is Rick Steves?

Rick Steves is an American travel writer and television personality, widely known for his numerous travel guidebooks and for hosting "Rick Steves' Europe," a travel show that premiered on PBS in 2000. He resides in Edmonds, Washington, a town about 18 miles north of Seattle, where his company's headquarters are also based.

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