Ricky Gervais' partner Jane Fallon showered with support after mixed cancer update: 'I’m nervous!'

Lydia Davies

By Lydia Davies


Published: 23/04/2026

- 20:32

The author said her second surgery was successful but she faces a difficult treatment decision

Jane Fallon has shared a positive update on her breast cancer treatment, revealing her second surgery was successful as she continues her recovery.

The bestselling author, 65, took to Instagram to post a light-hearted photo alongside her cat, joking she had been “heckled” while attempting to film a video update.


Ms Fallon confirmed doctors had achieved the clear margins required following her latest procedure.

"Little update. I tried to do a video but, as you can see, I was heckled," she wrote.

Ricky Gervais and Jane FallonRicky Gervais and Jane Fallon began their relationship in 1982 | GETTY

"So, my 2nd surgery went well. They got the clear margin they need on the original excision, which is great."

She did reveal that a small patch of precancerous cells had been discovered during the operation, but stressed that further surgery had been ruled out.

Ms Fallon explained: "They did hit a new little patch of precancerous cells on the other side of the new bit they took out but, thankfully, everyone agrees more surgery would be overkill."

The author added her medical team believes the risks of further treatment may outweigh the benefits in her case.

Jane Fallon

Jane Fallon has been regularly sharing her cancer journey with her Instagram followers

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INSTAGRAM

She said: "I saw the oncologist today & we’ve agreed the risks of radiation outweigh the benefits in my case."

Ms Fallon confirmed she is now considering hormone therapy such as Tamoxifen, though admitted she remains hesitant due to potential side effects.

"Which leaves Tamoxifen (or similar) or wait and see (my preferred option).

"I’m very nervous about going the drug route, because I know the side effects can be hideous," she added.

Despite the uncertainty, the author reassured fans there is no immediate pressure to make a decision and said she is focused on returning to normal life.

"So, all good & I’m just looking forward to getting back to normal."

The recent update prompted an outpouring of support from followers on Instagram.

One wrote: “Hi Jane, you’re doing so well, one day at a time, you’re looking fabulous, and the cat behind made me laugh. Sending you lots of love, you’ve got this.”

Another added: “Sending get well vibes and wishes for a complete recovery. Pickle will look after you.”

Others shared their own experiences, with one commenting: “Thinking of you, Jane. I had it in 2008. Personally, I didn’t find chemo too hard and went to the gym throughout but everybody is different. Do what’s best for you. Sending lots of support."

“This is great news!” another follower wrote, while someone else penned: “Well done for getting through another surgery. Wishing you some reassuring news very soon."

Ms Fallon first revealed her diagnosis in March after the cancer was detected during a routine mammogram.

Jane Fallon

The author first shared her cancer diagnosis in March

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INSTAGRAM

Doctors confirmed it had been caught at an early stage, with her prognosis described as “excellent”.

Her initial operation took place later that month, with surgeons successfully removing the tumour, although a second procedure was required to ensure clear margins.

The latest update comes after Ms Fallon also spoke out against a disturbing online hoax, in which a fake obituary and AI-generated images falsely claimed she had died.

She made clear at the time that any such images were entirely fabricated, describing the incident as “vile” and “disgusting”.

Ms Fallon, who has been in a relationship with Gervais for more than four decades, has continued to document her treatment journey on social media.