This ‘7th Heaven’ Star Was Forced to Briefly Leave the Show Due to Cancer – His Life after the Show

This famous actor rose to fame in the late 1990s as Matt Camden on the popular family drama “7th Heaven.” The series, which revolved around the Camden family, became a staple of primetime television, showcasing the ups and downs of a large family navigating life’s many challenges.

However, behind the scenes, the rising star faced a serious health battle that temporarily pulled him away from the show. The actor’s unexpected journey reshaped his life and career. Here’s a closer look at his path from his diagnosis to where he is today.

Barry Watson’s Rise on ‘7th Heaven’ and His Unexpected Battle with Cancer

Barry Watson’s character Matt on “7th Heaven” was the responsible, sometimes rebellious, and protective big brother, and the actor’s portrayal made him a fan favorite.

The role catapulted Barry into the spotlight, establishing him as a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. “My biggest crush when I was little,” one person commented on a throwback photo the actor shared on Instagram.

“You’ve gotten more handsome over the years! 😻,” someone else shared. Another social media user added, “Waow so handsome. You could have been a model 🙂.” Reflecting on his early days on “7th Heaven,” Barry acknowledged that there were plenty of things he would have told his younger self before the premiere.

He admitted that, like many young actors, he didn’t know everything back then and often wished he could have advised his younger self to relax a bit more.

However, Barry has emphasized that he doesn’t dwell on what could have been done differently, as those experiences shaped him into the person he’s become. Looking back, Barry noted that his younger self likely never expected to have such a long-lasting career in the entertainment industry.

He humorously recalled, “I think at the time I was like, ‘I don’t know why these people want me to do this, and I don’t really know what I’m doing because I’m so green, but it seems to be working out, so I’m going to take the money and run.'”

Sadly, Barry’s thriving career took an unexpected turn in 2002 when he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. During this difficult period, the actor took a temporary leave from “7th Heaven” to focus on his health.

However, the show’s creator, Brenda Hampton, found a way to keep him involved by offering him a role on the writing staff, allowing him to contribute behind the scenes as a story editor.

Barry was grateful for the opportunity, which kept him busy and provided a sense of normalcy during his recovery. Reflecting on his return to the cast, including Jessica Biel and Stephen Collins, Barry had said, “The core family’s back now, which a lot of the audience wants to see.”

Barry has since opened up about how his cancer diagnosis changed his perspective on life, particularly regarding his health and wellness. In an interview, the actor shared that he received his diagnosis in March 2002 and began chemotherapy the following month.

He recalled the moment he first noticed something was wrong while in New York for a movie promotion. Feeling unusually tired, he initially brushed it off until he noticed a large lump on his neck.

His mother’s concern prompted him to visit the doctor, where tests and a biopsy confirmed that he had cancer. Throughout his battle, Barry leaned on a small but strong support system.

Although he found it hard to ask for help due to his stubborn nature, his mother and his ex-girlfriend were there for him. “My mother, Karen was a big support, my ex-girlfriend took very good care of me,” Barry shared.

The actor underwent six months of chemotherapy, and halfway through the treatment, he received the encouraging news that his cancer was undetectable. Despite the positive results, he had to complete the remaining months of treatment, enduring both good and challenging days.

Barry’s daily routine shifted once his treatment began. On days when he felt well enough, he stayed active, but when the treatment was more taxing, he allowed himself to rest.

One of the most noticeable changes in his lifestyle was his newfound attention to health and fitness. Barry’s outlook on life became more mindful and appreciative, and he began making healthier choices, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator—a habit he continues to maintain.

Life After ‘7th Heaven’ – Fatherhood, Family, and a New Outlook

After his time on “7th Heaven” and his recovery from cancer, Barry’s life took on new meaning, largely driven by his roles as a father and husband. In 2014, the actor married actress Natasha Gregson Wagner, the daughter of Hollywood legend Natalie Wood and actor Robert Wagner.

Barry has been documenting his close relationship with his in-laws on social media, including glimpses of the road trip he took with Robert in 2022. In 2020, the actor took to social media to support the release of his wife’s book, which gave readers an intimate look at her mother’s life.

After many years together, Barry and Natasha welcomed their daughter, Clover, whose name was inspired by the 1965 film “Inside Daisy Clover,” a nod to Natasha’s late mother’s work. Upon Clover’s birth, the couple shared, “We are overwhelmed with love and joy at the birth of our daughter Clover Clementyne Watson.”

Barry frequently expresses his admiration for Natasha, describing her as his true life partner. He credited her with making his world complete, even admitting that it was always difficult being away from his family while working.

Their partnership is a testament to Barry’s commitment to putting his family first, even when it means turning down job opportunities.

Barry also has two sons, Oliver and Felix, from his previous marriage to Tracy Hutson. In 2018, the actor took to Instagram to celebrate Felix’s 11th birthday with a humorous post.

In June 2020, the actor celebrated Oliver’s graduation from 8th grade and could not have been more proud. “I love you, Oliver. It’s been the most amazing experience watching you grow into the young man you are today,” the actor captioned the post in part.

Despite the demands of his acting career, Barry emphasized that being a dad is his top priority, far above any professional pursuit. “Being a dad and a husband is my number one job,” he stated.

Reflecting on his career choices, Barry admitted that he had passed on many roles to spend more time with his loved ones, a decision he never regretted.

As Barry’s children grew, he made it a point to be actively involved in their lives, whether it was coaching Clover’s basketball games or simply showing up to support them. “And hopefully my kids will recognize that Dad was always there,” Barry added.

Fortunately, the actor found a balance between his personal and professional life and continued to pursue his passion for acting. He worked on various projects, including “Highway to Heaven” and the superhero series “Naomi.” However, at the time of writing, Barry’s last acting credit came in 2022.

Over the years, Barry, 50, naturally aged, embracing the changes that come with time. He sports a shorter haircut and a distinguished salt-and-pepper beard.

Social media users praised the actor, with one person commenting, “Everyone ages. It’s all in how you do it. You, Mr. Watson, have done it well. At least he still looks like himself.” Someone else shared, “Looks beautiful 💙.”

Barry’s journey from a beloved TV star to a resilient cancer survivor is a testament to his strength and character. Through his personal challenges, the actor prioritized what mattered most—his health, family, and love for his craft.