‘Dilbert’ Creator Scott Adams Shares Grim Cancer Prognosis, Outlines Transition Period

Scott Adams, the creator of the iconic comic strip “Dilbert,” revealed that his chances of recovering from advanced prostate cancer are ‘essentially zero.’ Adams provided a detailed health update during a recent livestream, indicating January will be a ‘month of transition’ as he continues to engage with fans online.

Scott Adams, the 68-year-old creator of the long-running comic strip Dilbert, delivered a somber update on his battle with prostate cancer during a livestream of his show, Real Coffee with Scott Adams, on Thursday. Adams revealed that recent conversations with his radiologist have confirmed that his prognosis is bleak, with his chances of recovery described as “essentially zero.”

“It’s all bad news,” Adams told viewers. “The odds of me recovering are essentially zero. I’ll give you any updates if that changes, but it won’t.” Despite the grim outlook, Adams shared that he plans to continue livestreaming “for as long as it makes sense,” describing the activity as something he enjoys that keeps him occupied.

Adams also mentioned that January would likely be a “month of transition,” signaling a period of adjustment as he navigates the progression of his illness. “I will probably write down some closing thoughts today just so I have them,” he added during the livestream.

Background on Adams’ Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

Scott Adams first publicly disclosed his prostate cancer diagnosis during a livestream in May 2025. At that time, he shared that the cancer had metastasized to his bones and described the disease as fatal. “I don’t have too much longer,” Adams said, estimating possibly only a few months left, likely through the summer.

Throughout the summer, Adams used testosterone blockers, a treatment that temporarily alleviated pain and helped prolong his life. However, the cancer’s progression continued despite these efforts.

In early November 2025, Adams publicly appealed for assistance on the social media platform X, urging former President Donald Trump to help him access a cancer drug called Pluvicto. Adams claimed his insurance provider had failed to schedule the necessary intravenous administration of the drug. Trump responded promptly, tweeting “On it!” and subsequently, Adams received the treatment via Kaiser Northern California.

Despite the administration of Pluvicto, Adams experienced further complications. In a December livestream from his hospital bed, he revealed that his treatment was postponed due to ongoing radiation therapy. During that update, Adams disclosed that he was paralyzed below the waist, though he still retained some sensation.

To address this paralysis, Adams underwent radiation targeting the tumor near his spine in hopes of regaining lower body strength. Unfortunately, in his most recent update, he stated there is “no chance” he will recover feeling or movement in his legs.

Legacy and Controversies Surrounding Scott Adams

Scott Adams is widely recognized for creating Dilbert, a comic strip launched in 1989 that satirizes workplace culture and office dynamics. The strip became a cultural touchstone and was syndicated in newspapers worldwide for decades.

However, Adams has faced significant controversy in recent years. In February 2023, he attracted widespread backlash after making remarks during his show that likened Black Americans to a “hate group.” Specifically, Adams said, “Based on the current way things are going, the best advice I would give to white people is to get the hell away from Black people.”

These comments led to professional repercussions. Portfolio, an imprint of Penguin Random House, withdrew plans to publish Adams’ self-help book Reframe Your Brain. Additionally, Andrews McMeel Universal (AMU), the former distributor of Dilbert, severed ties with Adams. AMU released a statement emphasizing their commitment to free speech but clarifying they would not support commentary rooted in discrimination or hate.

While the Dilbert comic strip is no longer syndicated in newspapers, Adams continues to produce the comic as a web series titled Dilbert Reborn.

Current Status and Outlook

As Adams faces the final stages of his illness, his health updates have been marked by transparency and a candid approach to his prognosis. Despite the severity of his condition, he remains engaged with his audience through livestreams and social media, sharing both personal reflections and treatment developments.

Adams’ announcement that January will be a “month of transition” suggests that he is preparing for significant changes in how he manages his illness and public presence. His ongoing communication underscores a desire to maintain connection with fans and followers during this challenging period.

Scott Adams’ contributions to comic art and cultural commentary, as well as his recent health journey, continue to be widely followed by both admirers and critics alike.