Roger Ebert Taking ‘Leave of Presence’

Roger Ebert will be forced to slow down his role as one of Hollywood’s most acclaimed film critics in order to undergo radiation for cancer, he announced this week. While he admits he will be slowing down, the resilient Ebert insists he’s not stopping. In a statement posted to his blog, Ebert called his break a “leave of presence,” assuring fans that he’s “not going away” but writing on select movies only. The incurable optimist is no stranger to suffering, having almost lost his battle with throat cancer in 2008. But he’s not giving up. “See you at the movies,” he ended his post. Two thumbs up for attitude.