Chris Appleton Opens Up About Terrifying Cancer Scare and Kim Kardashian's Crucial Support
Celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton has bravely revealed that he endured a terrifying cancer scare last year, sharing a candid health update that highlights the profound impact of family history and celebrity friendship during moments of medical crisis.
A Family History of Esophageal Cancer
The 42-year-old British hairstylist, renowned for working with A-list clients including Jennifer Lopez, Katy Perry, and Ariana Grande, explained that the disease runs in his family. His mother previously battled esophageal cancer, creating a heightened sense of vulnerability when he received concerning medical news.
Speaking to TMZ, Appleton recounted the frightening experience: "I had a very difficult year and had a cancer scare which was pretty scary because my mum had esophageal cancer and Kim's dad had it."
Kim Kardashian's Empathetic Guidance
Appleton revealed that reality star Kim Kardashian, 45, provided invaluable support during his health crisis. Kardashian's father, Robert Kardashian, died from esophageal cancer in 2003 at age 59, giving her personal understanding of the disease's impact.
"She helped me through it because her dad died from it and she knew a lot about it," Appleton explained, highlighting how Kardashian's own family tragedy enabled her to offer meaningful comfort and practical guidance during his uncertain period.
The Silent Doctor and Intensive Testing
The hairstylist described the anxiety of his medical consultations, expecting reassurance but encountering concerning silence instead. "I thought I would be reassured by the doctor but I never got that positive from the doctor, he was silent," Appleton recalled.
This led to an extensive diagnostic process: "I had test after test and I had to go under and have a more intense operation." The medical team remained particularly vigilant due to Appleton's family history of esophageal cancer.
Positive Outcome and Personal Transformation
Fortunately, the intensive testing revealed that Appleton did not have cancer but rather cysts. "Fortunately for me I didn't have cancer I had the cysts but because it was in my family they were incredibly worried," he shared.
The health scare prompted significant personal reflection that influenced his debut book, Your Roots Don't Define You, released on January 20 in the United States. Appleton explained that the experience made him "rewrite" his work, feeling "I wasn't prepared to lose my voice before owning it first."
Exploring Insecurity and Identity
In his book, Appleton explores themes of insecurity that persist despite his professional success with Hollywood's biggest stars. "Working with A-listers [doesn't] cancel insecurity," he told the Daily Mail. "It just gives it a bigger audience and more people have an opinion about it."
The title carries dual meaning, referencing both his hair styling profession and broader questions of identity. "The title in itself has a double meaning, obviously, because hair is my world, but really, I guess it is about identity," he explained.
Family Reactions and Personal Growth
Appleton, who shares son Billy, 22, and daughter Kitty-blu, 20, with ex-partner Katie Katon, revealed that his children have read and enjoyed his book. "For them to be proud of me is my greatest achievement," he admitted, reflecting on his journey from feeling ashamed to embracing authenticity.
The hairstylist, who famously came out in 2009 after nearly a decade in a relationship with Katon, and later married actor Lukas Gage in a Las Vegas ceremony officiated by Kim Kardashian in April 2023, hopes his story inspires others. "It's never too late to transform your life and create your comeback," he urged, emphasizing resilience in the face of health challenges and personal obstacles.
