Valerie Harper Busts Out Laughing With Mary Tyler Moore, "Not Thinking of Down the Road" While Battling Cancer

Venerable sitcom star maintains positive outlook and has fun with her costars at a press conference for her and Moore's upcoming guest spot on Hot in Cleveland

By Natalie Finn Apr 06, 2013 2:00 AMTags
Watch: Valerie Harper Upbeat After Diagnosis

Valerie Harper has one heck of an attitude—and none other than Betty White thinks anyone would be a fool to count her out.

"Miss Positive here, with her wonderful upbeat stuff, I won't buy any of those silly things that they tell her," the Hot in Cleveland star said at a press conference for their upcoming episode "Hot in Atlanta," which will see Harper reunite with several of her Mary Tyler Moore Show costars—including the titular beret-tosser!

The support Harper has received since revealing she was battling terminal brain cancer has been, she said,  "overwhelming and it's been wonderful and sweet, and I've got to get back to everyone—but I've been busy!"

"I've been so busy," Harper added, "and working on the show has been great. I don't have a lot of bad symptoms and they may be down the road, but I'm not thinking of down the road. I'm thinking just of today."

The 73-year-old actress, who recently got the all-clear to drive once again after sorting out some medication issues, said that her main concerns have been getting enough rest and spending enough time with her "Hot in Atlanta" script.

"I'm thinking of this moment and getting my lines right, so I can support my fellow players and serve the audience that will see this really funny show," Harper said.

Asked to reveal one of their favorite all-time moments together, Harper leaned toward Moore, puzzled, and said, "I don't know."

"Did we have any?" Moore cracked, prompting both of them to burst into laughter.