Montell Jordan: A Candid Update on His Health Journey

Montell Jordan, the 56-year-old R&B sensation known for his classic hit “This Is How We Do It,” recently shared an unvarnished update regarding his ongoing battle with prostate cancer. During a poignant appearance on Today, he revealed the challenging news that, nearly a year after undergoing a radical prostatectomy, his cancer has returned.

A Difficult Diagnosis

In December 2024, Jordan first opened up about his health issues, revealing that he had been diagnosed with Stage 1 prostate cancer at the beginning of the year. Because of the aggressive nature of his cancer, his diagnosis was later upgraded to Stage 2. He credited more than a decade of regular PSA testing for his early diagnosis, a move that likely saved his life.

“I always imagined I would be telling my prostate cancer story from the other side,” Jordan remarked. “I had a radical prostatectomy, and my prostate was removed. There were clear margins.” His optimism was palpable at first, but follow-up scans revealed troubling news: cancer had reappeared in his lymph nodes and the area where his prostate once was.

The Next Steps

Faced with this new development, Jordan is preparing for a rigorous treatment plan that includes proton radiation therapy five days a week for seven and a half weeks. He’ll also be taking hormone blockers to suppress the testosterone that fuels prostate cancer. This treatment plan is a significant life interruption, yet he’s approaching it with resilience.

“It is a seven-and-a-half-week interruption of life to make sure that I have a longer life,” he noted. His steadfast determination not to be defined by his illness shines through as he expresses hope for eradication of the cancer after his forthcoming treatments.

Leading by Example

Jordan’s transparency about his health struggles has broader implications, particularly for Black men, who statistically face a higher risk for prostate cancer yet may be reluctant to seek screening. With the aim of removing the stigma surrounding prostate cancer, he wants to be a beacon of hope and information.

“I’m trying to give a template for people that get diagnosed with this to know they have options available to them,” he shared. His candid approach is aimed at empowering others to confront their emotions. “It’s okay to cry. It’s okay to shake your fist at God,” he insists. This emotional honesty serves as a reminder that no one has to navigate their cancer journey alone.

Embracing Quality of Life

Even post-surgery, Jordan has managed to maintain a commendable quality of life, stating, “I’ve already had a fantastic quality of life even following my prostate removal.” His resilience is a testament to his commitment not just to fighting the disease, but also to living fully during the process.

Despite his current setback, Jordan remains optimistic. His belief that further treatment can lead to a cancer-free future is profound and inspiring. “I still believe that even after this next treatment, it will eradicate the cancer from my body and still have a great quality of life moving forward,” he affirmed, embodying a spirit of hope that resonates deeply with anyone facing health challenges.

Jordan’s journey is not just a personal story; it is a call to action for awareness, early detection, and emotional expression in the face of adversity. His openness adds a vital voice to the conversation about prostate cancer, urging others to prioritize their health and make informed choices.