John Wayne, one of the most iconic and influential actors in American cinema history, had been battling the disease for six months, after having survived lung cancer 15 years earlier. He passed away at the UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles, surrounded by his family and friends.

His final film role was in The Shootist (1976), in which he played an aging gunfighter who also had cancer. The role was poignant and prophetic, as Wayne himself was diagnosed with stomach cancer in January 1979, during a gall bladder surgery. He agreed to undergo experimental treatments, but they proved ineffective. He made his last public appearance in April 1979, when he received a special Academy Award for his lifetime achievements. He received a standing ovation and expressed his gratitude and optimism. ^{7 2 4}

According to various accounts, his last words were spoken to his daughter Aissa, who was holding his hand. He said, "Of course, I know who you are. You're my girl. I love you." He then slipped into a coma and died shortly after. ^{7 4}