The formidable actor known for his role in Breaking Bad as the drug smuggler Tortuga has faced a harrowing battle with liver cancer, a struggle he kept hidden from his loved ones and close circle. Despite enduring the trials of his illness, he maintained a brave front, even as his secretary humorously remarked on his occasional “whining like a little girl.”
During his promotion of his innovative product “Giddy,” a wearable Viagra alternative, to The Sun, he candidly shared his health journey. Trejo, the actor behind the intimidating Tortuga, confessed to his own product’s efficacy, citing concerns about his liver’s well-being as a driving factor.
“I’m terrified of medications,” he admitted to the magazine, revealing his past battle with liver cancer and the formidable 10 cm tumor that doctors discovered during his diagnosis. Unable to undergo chemotherapy due to the tumor’s size, he underwent injections directly into the tumor, a treatment known as Selective Internal Radiation Therapy (SIRT), to combat the disease.
After several rounds of treatment, he received the welcome news of being cancer-free, a testament to his resilience and the effectiveness of his medical care. However, he faced the challenge of concealing his illness from the public eye, fearing repercussions on his acting career.
Maintaining secrecy became paramount, even as he grappled with the physical toll of his illness. His weight remained steady, a conscious effort to avoid raising suspicions that could jeopardize his livelihood.
Liver cancer remains a significant health concern, with thousands of new cases reported annually. Symptoms such as fatigue, unintentional weight loss, and jaundice serve as warning signs, highlighting the importance of early detection and intervention.
Despite the challenges he faced, Trejo’s resilience and determination serve as an inspiration, both in his battle with cancer and his commitment to his craft.