Takeaways for Entertainment Professionals:
- John Cena was diagnosed with skin cancer twice, revealing the risks of long-term sun exposure without protection.
- Early detection saved his life — he now advocates for regular dermatologist visits and daily sun protection.
- Cena’s story serves as a wake-up call to actors, performers, and crew who work long hours in the sun.
- He’s now partnered with Neutrogena to raise awareness and promote skin safety in the entertainment industry.
John Cena Opens Up About Skin Cancer and the Importance of Sun Safety
WWE legend and Hollywood actor John Cena has shared a deeply personal story about his battle with skin cancer — a reminder to all entertainment professionals about the real dangers of sun exposure on and off set.
The 47-year-old star, who announced he’ll retire from wrestling at the end of 2025, spoke candidly about his experience, revealing that he never used sunscreen for years — even after relocating from Massachusetts to sunny Florida in his early 20s.
“I was stubborn,” Cena told PEOPLE. “I didn’t want to have a routine and I also thought the problem would never reach me.”
Years of Sun Exposure Caught Up With Him
Cena admitted he fell in love with the sun but neglected his skin, a mistake that ultimately led to the discovery of two cancerous spots.
“I had a ton of exposure with minimal protection and it caught up with me.”
The first warning sign came during a routine visit to a dermatologist, where a cancerous spot on his right pectoral was found and removed. But the scare didn’t end there.
“I got a phone call saying I had to come back in,” Cena recalled. “That’s not the call you want to get.”
Fortunately, his dermatologist guided him through the process and encouraged him to take skin health seriously.
Second Diagnosis Left a Visible Reminder
A year after the first diagnosis, Cena had a second spot removed near his right shoulder. The marks from both procedures are still visible to fans who follow his WWE appearances.
“If you watch WWE, you’ll be able to see the white polka dot on the side of my chest and on my shoulder.”
A Changed Mindset & Advocacy for Skin Protection
Since the experience, Cena has drastically changed his attitude toward sun care. He’s now an advocate for daily sunscreen use and is teaming up with skincare brand Neutrogena to raise awareness.
“I’m at a great space in my life where that’s now important to me,” he said. “I wear [the scars] as a reminder to take the extra few seconds to protect yourself every day.”
Why This Matters for Entertainment Professionals
Whether you’re an actor filming under hot stage lights, a production assistant hustling outdoors, or a director scouting sun-drenched locations — your skin is constantly exposed. Cena’s experience is a reminder that no one is immune, and that prevention and early detection are key.
Quick Tips for On-Set Sun Safety:
- Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen before heading outside — and reapply every 2 hours.
- Wear protective clothing and hats, especially during midday hours.
- Schedule regular dermatologist checkups, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors or under bright lighting.
- Use shaded rest areas when filming on location to reduce continuous sun exposure.
A Human Story Behind the Stats
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S., and while the numbers are staggering, Cena emphasizes the human connection behind the data.
“The stats are overwhelming,” he said, “but I think the best way to hammer home a point is human-to-human connection.”
Final Thoughts
John Cena’s story is more than a celebrity health update — it’s a critical reminder for everyone in the entertainment industry to prioritize health just as much as their craft. Don’t wait for a wake-up call. Take care of your skin, get regular checkups, and lead by example on set.
