At 82 years old, Eric Braeden—famously known for his iconic portrayal of Victor Newman on The Young and the Restless—continues to defy age and adversity with remarkable resilience. In a recent Facebook video, despite feeling under the weather and grappling with serious health concerns,

Braeden was seen working out, his determination shining through every rep, even if his usual power was somewhat diminished. This incident comes on the heels of a harrowing medical exam in which his urologist discovered high-grade malignant cells in his bladder during a routine check for prostate issues. Yet, Braeden’s spirit remains unbroken; he continues to work, to act, and to inspire millions with his unwavering commitment to his craft and his zest for life.

In this extensive account, we dive deep into Braeden’s journey—a narrative interwoven with personal challenges, the relentless demands of a storied career in drama, and the transformative power of determination. We explore how he has managed to juggle grueling health battles, such as a six-week immunotherapy treatment, with the demands of starring on one of television’s longest-running soap operas.

Along the way, we also reflect on his unexpected comments on CNN’s Who’s Talking with Chris Wallace?, where he addressed controversial remarks made by Eva Longoria regarding her own struggles in the dramatic world, suggesting that her hardships were the result of lacking the necessary talent to meet the demands of high-stakes acting. Read more below