On this day January 7 1985, Yul Brynner appeared on Good Morning America while suffering from terminal lung cancer. The legendary actor, widely known for his role in The King and I, used the national television appearance to speak openly about his condition and the consequences of smoking.
During the appearance, Brynner announced that he wanted a public service message to be aired after his death urging people not to smoke. His decision transformed a personal tragedy into a powerful public warning, leaving a lasting impact that extended beyond his film and stage career. The moment became one of the most remembered celebrity health statements of the decade and reinforced how public figures in the 1980s increasingly used their visibility to influence public awareness and responsibility.
80s insight: The 1980s saw major public figures use television to deliver serious health messages with lasting cultural impact.
During the appearance, Brynner announced that he wanted a public service message to be aired after his death urging people not to smoke. His decision transformed a personal tragedy into a powerful public warning, leaving a lasting impact that extended beyond his film and stage career. The moment became one of the most remembered celebrity health statements of the decade and reinforced how public figures in the 1980s increasingly used their visibility to influence public awareness and responsibility.
80s insight: The 1980s saw major public figures use television to deliver serious health messages with lasting cultural impact.
