Famous actor Hugh Jackman has been in the news recently, but not for a reason one would hope for. The Australian actor has been fighting a battle with skin cancer since 2013. Diagnosed with basal-cell carcinoma, he began skin cancer treatment that included having spots removed from both his nose and shoulder. He now goes for check-ups regularly, every 3 months. He is open about his battle on Instagram and often posts pictures that show his scars and bandages, post treatment.
As Dermatologists, skin cancer is unfortunately something we come into contact with every single day. Whether we’re talking about skin cancer or breast cancer, it’s no secret that celebrity support and endorsements have contributed to millions of dollars raised towards awareness, prevention and research. Some are dealing with a personal battle like Hugh, and using the opportunity to promote awareness and prevention. Others are using their influence and financial abundance to create real and positive change.
We thought it would be nice to take a look back at some of the major celebrity endorsements that have been noted in the media over the last 15 years, because it’s so important this critical work continues.
Here are some examples of celebrities we’ve caught in the act of giving back:
Kate Moss
The supermodel has supported the Breakthrough Breast Cancer t-shirt campaign, and has also donated shoes for auction.
Melissa Etheridge
Melissa was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004, and has acted as an artist ambassador for Hard Rock’s Pinktober Campaign.
Rob Lowe
After experiencing the personal loss of his mother to cancer, Rob became the first male spokesperson for the annual Lee National Denim Day fundraiser. This charity has raised upwards of $83 million towards the fight against breast cancer.
Sheryl Crow
Sheryl was an advocate long before her own diagnosis in 2006. She is now cancer free and actively supports cancer awareness and fundraising, and also promotes healthy living.
Reese Witherspoon
Reese has publicly supported the Avon Walk For Breast Cancer, on countless occasions.
Miley Cyrus
Miley has worn the widely recognized pink ribbon pin during concerts.
Nicole Richie
Nicole supported QVC’s event in New York, in support of the fight against breast cancer.
Sienna Miller
Sienna has supported cancer research through attending special event dinners in London.
Carrie Underwood
Carrie has autographed special auction items, such as a pink motorcycle, to benefit breast cancer research.
Vanessa Hudgens
Vanessa supported Reebok’s event for breast cancer awareness that is held in NYC.
Anne Hathaway
Anne’s screening for The Devil Wears Prada hosted an auction, where the proceeds were donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
Julianne Moore
Julianne has supported Revlon’s Walk/Run For Women Against Breast Cancer.
Gwyneth Paltrow
Gwyneth attended the Breast Cancer Research Foundation’s Hottest Pink Party Ever in NYC.
Beyoncé Knowles
Beyoncé and her former bandmates Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams gave us a blast from the past and performed at a concert, that was held to raise awareness for breast cancer in LA.
There are many, many more supportive celebrities who aren’t on this list, but we do need to stop somewhere. Worth noting are two wonderful organizations that have achieved major celebrity endorsements:
Stand Up To Cancer is a widely known organization with countless celebrity endorsements and supporters. Ellen Degeneres, Adam Sandler, Reese Witherspoon, Jennifer Anniston, and Taylor Swift, just to name a few.
Teenage Cancer Trust, an organization in the UK that directly supports teens who’ve been diagnosed with cancer has many ambassadors, including actors Eddie Redmayne and Nick Hoult.
Thanks for reading, and don’t forget to apply your sunscreen!
