There's no doubt that Jeff Bridges is an absolute icon in the entertainment industry. Not only does he come from a famous family, but the Cecil B. DeMille Award-winner has also played some pretty legendary roles over the course of his career.

But on Oct. 19, 2020, the star revealed some heart-wrenching news, albeit with a hopeful outlook: he had been diagnosed with cancer. Bridges tweeted at the time:

"As the Dude would say ... New S--T has come to light. I have been diagnosed with Lymphoma. Although it is a serious disease, I feel fortunate that I have a great team of doctors and the prognosis is good. I’m starting treatment and will keep you posted on my recovery."

On Dec. 14, 2020, Jeff Bridges took to Instagram to share an update. Appearing to be comfortably laying back in a robe on a fuzzy pillow with a cozy blanket, the beloved star had a polka dot curtain providing him with shade. That seemed to be necessary because Bridges appeared to be on a balcony situated beside a stunning beach with a view of the water.

Bridges provided a quick list that included how he was doing at the time, noting that he was "feeling good." On top of that, he revealed that he had recently celebrated his birthday on December 4th, adding, the brief observation, "71, man."

Bridges also pointed out something that his social media followers could clearly see in the photo that he posted, noting that he had shaved his head. It was quite a different look for the star who had recently been wearing his hair on the longer side while also sporting a full beard.

Fans surely noticed something — or rather, someone — else in the photo. Snuggled up in an adorable ball on Bridges' lap was a tiny dog. "Got a puppy," the star wrote, adding that the little one's name is Monty. Those who are following the actor were definitely excited about the pup, and they were even more thrilled to find out that Bridges is doing well during his recovery.

When Jeff Bridges gave his fans an update on how he was doing, it was clear that those who follow him on social media appreciated the gesture from the star. Not only were they happy to find out that he's doing well, but they were also eager to offer him encouragement. One person wrote while helping the star celebrate his 71st year,

"Happy birthday, Mr. Bridges!"

Another simply wrote,

"We love you, dude!!"

Someone else commented on Bridges' new look, pointing out that he has, quote, "a nice noggin!"

Of course, plenty of people were also thrilled to find out about Bridges' new puppy. One fan noted,

"Monty looks like a great pal."

Another responded to the photo and accompanying news by writing,

"You're the best — congrats on the puppy. Sending you all the healing and loving vibes."

In fact, plenty of people wanted to share that kind of message, with one Instagram user writing,

"All the love and good vibes, man."

Another wrote,

"Sending you positive & loving vibes."

This wasn't the first time that Jeff Bridges had updated his fans about how he was doing following his cancer diagnosis. On Oct. 29, 2020, the actor sent a message to his fans by posting a photo to Instagram that showed the star in the midst of treatment. He wrote,

"I want to thank you all for reaching out during this time, it feels good getting all the well wishes and love!"

His fans were quick to respond. One supportive admirer wrote,

"You're an absolute L E G E N D. You will beat this! Stay strong."

Others noted that the star is both a "true inspiration" and "a fighter," while someone else echoed the kind of sentiment that was left by many others, adding,

"Abiding all the Dude, get well soon, Good Sir."

While Bridges is navigating a bumpy road at the moment, it's clear that his fans are behind him every step of the way.

#JeffBridges #TheDude