Louis Gossett Jr. Diagnosed with Cancer

Oscar-winning actor Louis Gossett Jr. has been diagnosed with prostate cancer, the actor announced on Tuesday.

Gossett told KTLA News that he went public with the news "to set an example for the large number of African-American men who are victims of this disease because of the comparatively low emphasis in our community on preventative examinations and early treatment."

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Gossett's cancer is in the early stages, and he has begun treatment.  
The 72-year-old actor won an Oscar in 1982 for his role in An Officer and a Gentleman. He's also appeared in other popular movies and TV series, including A Raisin in the Sun, Roots, Family Guy and ER.