The recent death of musician D’Angelo has sparked conversations around the all-too-often overshadowed cause, pancreatic cancer. Sadly, D’Angelo lost that battle at just 51 on October 14, 2025. He now joins the ranks of other luminaries including David Bowie, Aretha Franklin, and Alan Rickman who heroically battled this difficult disease. His death highlights the need for greater awareness around pancreatic cancer. Research is critically important, as thousands more are expected to be negatively impacted in the coming years.
D’Angelo’s death is shining a light on pancreatic cancer. In an age with an array of breakthroughs in science, engineering, and technology, this disease is still one of the deadliest cancers. By 2025, specialists predict over 67,440 new cases diagnosed in the United States. Unfortunately, this increase will be responsible for an estimated 51,980 more deaths. According to the American Cancer Society, pancreatic cancer is the tenth most common cancer. Since 2013, its age-adjusted incidence increased by almost 0.9% annually.
One of the most recognizable Americans to ever wage war against pancreatic cancer was television legend Alex Trebek. In March 2019, Trebek announced his diagnosis and continued to host the game show Jeopardy! for 18 months while undergoing treatment. He died in November 2020, at 80 years old, but now he has an everlasting legacy and imprint on television history.
One more celebrity affected by this disease is Mindy Kaling, whose mother passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2012. The human toll of these losses is profoundly felt in communities across the country, underscoring the need to redouble efforts against this cancer which acts so aggressively. Just this year, actress Maria Menounos was diagnosed with a Stage 2 pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor.
Pancreatic cancer develops from two main categories of cell in the pancreas—a crucial organ that lies between the stomach and spine. Sadly, the outcome remains grim. The five-year survival rate for patients today is still only about 13.3%. Treatment varies stage dependent with some combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
Willie Garson, as noted for his role in Sex and the City, sadly succumbed to pancreatic cancer in 2021. His death is a reminder of the disturbing occurrence of this disease with public figures. The emotional toll of these sudden impacts has led affected families and advocates to push for greater research and awareness efforts.
“After a prolonged and courageous battle with cancer, we are heartbroken to announce that Michael D’Angelo Archer, known to his fans around the world as D’Angelo, has been called home,” – D’Angelo’s family
The sharp rise in cases illustrates the need for ongoing awareness and education around pancreatic cancer. Too many people ignore its warning signs, usually catching it late in its development. Increasing early detection is complicated by the absence of clear symptoms during the early stages.
