The persistent and concerning rumors about Patrick Duffy's health have resurfaced recently, leading many fans to search for an immediate and accurate update on the beloved actor. As of December 2025, there is no credible or official information from Patrick Duffy, his partner Linda Purl, or his representatives confirming that the Dallas and Step by Step star is currently battling cancer.
The widespread confusion and speculation surrounding the actor's health largely stem from a significant, heartbreaking loss in his personal life several years ago. While the 76-year-old actor remains active in Hollywood, the "cancer" connection is directly tied to the passing of his late wife, Carlyn Rosser, who succumbed to the disease in 2017. This article provides the definitive facts, clarifies the source of the rumors, and offers an up-to-date look at the life and longevity of the iconic star.
Patrick Duffy: Full Biography and Profile
Patrick Duffy is one of American television's most recognizable and enduring figures, best known for his role as the morally upright and beloved Bobby Ewing on the long-running CBS soap opera Dallas. His career spans over five decades, cementing his legacy in primetime television.
- Full Name: Patrick George Duffy
- Date of Birth: March 17, 1949 (Age 76 as of December 2025)
- Place of Birth: Townsend, Montana, U.S.
- Iconic Roles: Bobby Ewing on Dallas (1978–1985, 1986–1991, 2012–2014); Frank Lambert on Step by Step (1991–1998); Stephen Logan on The Bold and the Beautiful (2022–Present).
- Late Wife: Carlyn Rosser (m. 1974; d. 2017). A professional ballet dancer and choreographer.
- Current Partner: Linda Purl (Began dating in 2020). An actress known for Happy Days and The Office.
- Children: Two sons, Padraic Terence Duffy (b. 1974) and Conor Frederick Duffy (b. 1980).
- Faith: Practicing Nichiren Buddhist, having converted after meeting his late wife.
The Definitive Answer: Debunking the Cancer Rumor
The question "Does Patrick Duffy have cancer?" is a recurring query that generates significant online traffic, but the answer remains a clear negative, according to all verifiable and recent reporting. The persistent rumors are rooted in three main areas of confusion that have compounded over time.
The Heartbreaking Loss of Carlyn Rosser
The primary source of the cancer speculation is the tragic death of Patrick Duffy's wife of 43 years, Carlyn Rosser. Carlyn passed away from cancer in January 2017.
Duffy has spoken openly about his grief and the strength he found in his Nichiren Buddhist faith to cope with the loss. He has also been vocal about the deep connection they shared, and the seven-year anniversary of her passing often prompts renewed public interest in the circumstances of her death, which is then mistakenly attributed to him.
A Case of Mistaken Identity
In the digital age, a simple name search can lead to confusion. There are other individuals named Patrick Duffy, including a physician assistant specializing in neurosurgery in Washington state. Furthermore, unverified, low-credibility online sources, including a suspicious GoFundMe page, have occasionally surfaced with vague claims, but these are not connected to the famous actor and should be disregarded as potential scams or misinformation.
Patrick Duffy’s Current Health and Longevity
Far from being ill, Patrick Duffy is enjoying a vibrant and active life in his mid-seventies. Recent interviews and public appearances confirm his excellent health and enduring energy.
He credits his continued youthfulness and longevity to his partner, actress Linda Purl, and their shared passion for a healthy lifestyle. His commitment to Nichiren Buddhism, a practice he adopted after meeting Carlyn, is also a cornerstone of his mental and physical well-being. He has stated that his faith helped him navigate the profound grief of losing his wife and continues to sustain him today.
A Career Renaissance and New Love: Patrick Duffy in 2025
Patrick Duffy's life since 2017 has been marked by a return to professional prominence and a beautiful, unexpected new chapter in his personal life. The "Bobby Ewing actor" has found a profound new connection that has energized his later years.
The Zoom Romance with Linda Purl
In a story that captured the attention of fans worldwide, Duffy reconnected with actress Linda Purl in 2020. The two had been acquaintances for over 40 years, having first met in London in 2000.
Their romance blossomed unexpectedly during the COVID-19 pandemic. They began a daily Zoom friendship which rapidly turned into a deep, committed relationship. Duffy drove cross-country to be with Purl, and they have been inseparable ever since, often working together on various projects and sharing their Oregon farm life on social media.
Continuing His Legacy on Television
Duffy has shown no signs of slowing down his acting career. His recent professional life includes a recurring role on the popular daytime soap opera The Bold and the Beautiful, where he plays Stephen Logan.
His willingness to embrace new projects and his active presence in the industry confirm that his health remains robust, allowing him to maintain the rigorous schedule required of a working actor. His enduring presence is a testament to his good health and positive outlook.
Patrick Duffy's Enduring Entities and Topical Authority
To fully understand Patrick Duffy's current status, it is important to recognize the key entities that define his life and career, all of which point to a healthy, active individual.
Key Entities and Topics:
- Bobby Ewing: His most famous role on Dallas, which defined his career and created a global fanbase.
- Carlyn Rosser: His late wife, whose death from cancer is the root of the current health rumors.
- Linda Purl: His current partner, a relationship that began during the pandemic and has brought him immense joy and renewed energy.
- Nichiren Buddhism: His long-held religious faith, which he credits for providing him with the framework to handle personal tragedy and maintain a positive attitude.
- Oregon Farm: The location where he and Linda Purl currently reside, often showcasing a healthy, outdoor lifestyle.
- Step by Step: His other major series, where he starred as Frank Lambert alongside Suzanne Somers.
- Padraic and Conor Duffy: His two sons, who remain a central part of his family life.
- The Bold and the Beautiful: His current television project, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to acting.
- Larry Hagman: His late co-star from Dallas, whose own cancer battle and death often intersect with searches for Duffy's health.
In conclusion, the answer to the question "Does Patrick Duffy have cancer?" is a resounding no. The actor is healthy, in a thriving relationship with Linda Purl, and actively pursuing his career in 2025. The rumors are a misattribution of the tragic cancer battle fought by his late wife, Carlyn Rosser, a memory he honors while continuing to live his life fully. Fans can rest assured that the actor is doing well and enjoying his seventh decade.
References:
- Dallas star reveals the secret to his longevity at 76 years of age.
- 'Dallas' icon Patrick Duffy reveals what keeps in young at nearly 80.
- Patrick Duffy, PA-C | Neurosurgery | Kirkland, WA - EvergreenHealth.
- Patrick Duffy Converted to Buddhism to Sleep with Future Wife Who.
- Linda Purl and Patrick Duffy's Relationship: All About.
- Patrick Duffy Is a Proud Father of Two Sons, Padraic & Conor, from.
- How 'Dallas' Star Patrick Duffy, Linda Purl Balance Work + Love.
- Patrick Duffy to return to 'The Bold and the Beautiful' with.
- Patrick Duffy's Oregon Farm | Partner, 2 Children, Age 76.
- This Week's Cover: Larry Hagman and Patrick Duffy on the success.
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