“Blitz” writer/director Steve McQueen poses for a portrait at the Four Seasons Hotel in Los Angeles on Monday, Oct. 14, 2024. , Photo Credit: Chris Pizzello

Acclaimed director Steve McQueen has revealed he was diagnosed with prostate cancer just weeks before production on his latest project two years ago. the Blitzwas scheduled to begin.

In a candid interview with deadlineMcQueen shared that the diagnosis occurred during a routine checkup while he was working on the film. The Oscar-winning filmmaker was diagnosed with a small tumor on his prostate, but he took immediate action to address the health issue.

McQueen recalled the early days of his diagnosis, “I was in bed working on the computer – working, emailing, whatever.” Despite the personal challenge, McQueen chose to keep his condition private to avoid worrying the cast and crew. the Blitz,

“I kept it private at that stage,” he explained in an interview. deadlineOpted to concentrate on his work and continue managing production as planned.

At that time, McQueen delayed shooting by only two weeks to undergo surgery, in which the cancerous tumor was successfully removed.

Now, two years later, McQueen has “made a full recovery and is fully functional”, as he continues his work in the film industry. “I really just wanted to keep working,” he said, emphasizing his tenacious, “keep working at it” attitude.

McQueen, 55, is no stranger to the effects of prostate cancer. His father died of the disease in 2006, which McQueen believes played a significant role in his early identity.

Reflecting on his father’s death, McQueen commented, “In some ways, you could say my father saved my life because, unfortunately, he died.”

He now believes that his own early diagnosis and the proactive steps he took may have saved his life.

This image released by Apple TV+ shows Elliot Heffernan, left, and filmmaker Steve McQueen on the set of “Blitz.” , Photo Credit: Parisa Taghizadeh

As part of his ongoing efforts to raise awareness about prostate cancer, McQueen has launched a new campaign for prostate cancer research. deadline,

He is particularly focused on encouraging early screening for black men, who are statistically at higher risk.

“One in 12 black men will die from prostate cancer,” McQueen said. The fact that I had been avoiding the situation for years was, again, my savior in that way. So, just empty it in advance and get it quickly.”

McQueen expressed frustration over the fact that many men are not proactive in getting screened, which can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment.

McQueen stressed the importance of early intervention, saying, “The tragedy of this is that no one has to die from it.”

By talking about his own experience, he hopes to change attitudes toward prostate cancer and help more men take control of their health.

In addition to his advocacy work, McQueen has used his filmmaking platform to raise awareness.

In 2021, he released a short film titled Ashamedwhich focused on the stigma associated with prostate cancer in the black community.

The film, which stars Idris Elba and Morgan Freeman, aimed to break down barriers and encourage more open conversations about the disease.

McQueen has also filmed a new short film for the Proactive for Your Prostate campaign, this time starring David Harewood, emphasizing the need for black men to take prostate cancer seriously and get regular screenings.