Ricky Gervais’ Partner, Jane Fallon, Shares Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Jane Fallon, the longtime partner of British comedian and actor Ricky Gervais, has bravely shared her recent diagnosis with breast cancer. The 65-year-old author and television producer revealed the news via an Instagram post, explaining her recent quiet spell on social media.
“I thought I should post something as I’ve had a few people notice I’ve been a bit quiet on here lately,” Fallon began her candid post, which she titled “bit of news.” She continued, “About a month ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer – very early stage thankfully and the prognosis is excellent.”
Fallon elaborated that the cancer was detected during a routine mammogram conducted just a week before Christmas. She emphasised that she had experienced no outward symptoms, but a “brilliant radiographer” identified an anomaly, prompting further investigations.
“I had no symptoms but the brilliant radiographer spotted something iffy and sent me for further tests, and eventually a biopsy,” she explained. “Since then, I’ve had more mammograms, more biopsies and an MRI, so they can pinpoint the problem area precisely.”
Fallon acknowledged the demanding nature of these tests, stating, “It’s been a lot, I’m not going to lie. But, my surgery is scheduled for the week after next and I just want to get it over with now.” She concluded her message with gratitude for the exceptional care she’s receiving from her medical team and indicated a desire for a period of quiet reflection. “All will be fine, but I’m not engaging with much beyond audiobooks and jigsaws [to be honest].”
A Shadow of “After Life”
The news has inevitably drawn parallels with the critically acclaimed Netflix series “After Life,” created, written, executive produced, directed by, and starring Ricky Gervais. In the show, Gervais’ character, Tony Johnson, a small-town newspaper journalist, grieves the loss of his wife, Lisa, who died from breast cancer.
The series, which premiered in 2019 and concluded after three seasons, depicted Lisa’s character through poignant flashbacks. Ricky Gervais has previously spoken openly about how his personal life, particularly his relationship with Fallon, served as inspiration for the show.
Speaking to The Mirror in the past, Gervais shared the profound impact the thought of losing his “soulmate” would have on him. “You don’t get to 60 without seeing most things,” he said. “I’ve lost both parents and a sibling, and all my pets and some friends. But the ultimate for me would be losing my soulmate. That’s the worst thing that could happen to me. So, it’s an imagination, a fiction, that stems from that.”
During an appearance on the UK chat show The One Show, Gervais even expressed his hope that he would pass away before Fallon, mirroring his character’s inability to cope with such a profound loss. Despite its sombre premise, “After Life” was widely praised for its sensitive and authentic portrayal of grief.
A Lifelong Partnership
Jane Fallon and Ricky Gervais have shared a remarkable partnership since meeting at University College London in 1982. They moved in together two years later and, much like Tony and Lisa in “After Life,” chose not to have children, instead dedicating their lives and affections to their beloved pets. Fallon has been a consistent presence at Gervais’ side, including at high-profile events like his fifth hosting of the Golden Globe Awards in 2020.
