By Rachel Sokol
While attending the University of Iowa, Colin Egglesfield modeled for mega-brands like Calvin Klein and Armani. He later pursued an acting career, landing roles on All My Children, The Client List, and Rizzoli & Isles, and co-starred opposite Kate Hudson and Ginnifer Goodwin in the cinematic hit Something Borrowed. Colin’s Hollywood credits also include appearances on Melrose Place, Chicago Fire, Gilmore Girls, and more.
Although he was deeply shaken by what unfolded on 9/11—he lived so close to the World Trade Center that his apartment was quarantined—life was, for the most part…great. However, an unexpected health battle forced Colin to reevaluate everything: his career in Tinseltown, his sense of purpose, and what truly mattered.
Colin has survived two rounds of testicular cancer and, most recently, prostate cancer. Now a passionate advocate, author, and mentor to fellow survivors, he’s using his journey to inspire and uplift others. In this candid interview with Preferred Health Magazine, the Chicago native opens up about resilience, identity, and how he’s turning hardship into purpose.
Were you worried Hollywood would view you differently after your cancer diagnosis?
At first—yes. That’s why I didn’t share it while filming All My Children. But after writing my book Agile Artist, I saw how healing it was for me and others. Ultimately, I had to follow my heart. Purpose and making a difference matter more to me than perception.
What role has journaling played in your healing process?
A huge one. Our subconscious hides things to protect us, but that detachment makes me numb. Writing allows my subconscious to release those feelings, so I can process and heal. When I bottle things up, I can’t be present for life. That’s why I created The Agile Artist 90-Day Manifestation Playbook—a spiritual planner to help people set daily intentions, goals, and reflections that support their mind, body, and spirit. Writing keeps me on track and connected to what matters most.
It’s hard to not frequently think, “My life is over” once you’re diagnosed with cancer. How do you focus on the positives?
I learned early on from my parents that what you focus on grows. My mom believed in the power of possibility—by directing your time and energy toward good outcomes, you give yourself a fighting chance. Focusing on negatives and “what ifs” can be disempowering. To move through my cancer experience, I had to focus on healing. I’ve done research on the mind’s power, manifestation, and the brain’s need for a framework to reach desired outcomes. Without a vision of certainty, it’s hard to face life’s challenges. For me, the choice was simple: live or give up. I chose to live—and that’s made all the difference.
You’ve said superficial concerns, lost meaning after cancer. What do you now value most about yourself?
I value showing up for myself and choosing empowerment.
I shift focus from negativity to healing. I want to support others in doing the same. It’s not about how long we live—it’s how we live. We can’t control everything, but we can control the meaning we give to our circumstances and how we treat ourselves and others along the way.
You’ve recently underwent treatment at the City of Hope in Phoenix. What do you look for in an oncologist?
Someone who truly listens and creates a safe space for tough conversations. At City of Hope, my doctors—Dr. Gellhaus and Dr. Bryce—and their entire team care for the whole person, not just the disease. I always feel supported emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Their Cancer Fighters program, led by Mackenzie Taylor and Arpi Hamilton, creates community and resources so no one feels alone. I’m currently leading their next virtual program using my Manifestation Playbook to help over 500 patients set empowering goals.
You’ve had medical teams in New York, California, and now Arizona. How do you manage transitions between them, especially when opinions differ?
The doctors I trust most are the ones who truly listen and validate my fears and questions. That’s essential to healing. When a doctor doesn’t acknowledge the emotional aspect, I move on. At City of Hope, every provider has made me feel 1,000 percent supported—and that’s made all the difference.
To learn more about Colin, including information about his podcasts, coaching, and speaking engagements, visit: https://colinegglesfield.com. Via Instagram: @colinegglesfield.
You’ve said cancer really tests romantic relationships. How so?
It’s easy to get trapped in romantic ideals—especially as an actor immersed in heightened realities. But real love means being seen and supported for who you are. Romance and passion are essential, but what deepens them is knowing you're with someone who is your best friend and will be there through the good, the bad, and the ugly. My girlfriend took care of me when I was at my weakest. That deepened our connection and showed me what real love looks like. It’s helped me heal—and changed my life.
What’s the best way to support a friend with a serious illness?
Ask, “What can I do for you?” or “What do you need?”—then truly listen. Don’t try to fix it or sugarcoat things. Let them sit with their reality. That acceptance helps them stop pretending they’re okay. When someone meets me in my fear and simply says, “I’m here with you,” that’s all I’ve needed to feel less alone. It makes a huge difference.