Beloved Australian actress and comedian Magda Szubanski has revealed she’s facing one of the toughest battles of her life — a rare and aggressive cancer diagnosis.
The 64-year-old star, best known for her roles in Kath & Kim, Babe, and Happy Feet, posted an emotional video to Instagram, informing her 273,000 followers that she has stage 4 mantle cell lymphoma.
In the video, a visibly brave Szubanski appeared with a freshly shaved head and a candid message.
“I have just been diagnosed with a very rare, very aggressive, very serious lymphoma,” she said. “It’s one of the nasty ones, unfortunately. But the good thing is I’m surrounded by beautiful friends and family, and an incredible medical support team.”
While the diagnosis is daunting, Szubanski is holding onto hope. “It’s pretty confronting,” she admitted, “but new treatments keep coming down the pipeline all the time.”
In her caption, the Reckoning author detailed her treatment plan, sharing that she’s undergoing the Nordic protocol — one of the most intensive regimens available — and praised the world-class care she’s receiving in Melbourne.
“I won’t sugar-coat it: it’s rough. But I’m hopeful,” she wrote.
Szubanski also issued a light-hearted yet serious public health plea: no hugs or kisses if you see her out and about. “Wave enthusiastically from a safe distance and know I love you madly,” she wrote with her signature humor.
The cancer was discovered during a routine breast screening, she said, after requesting further tests due to months of feeling “pretty rats***.”
“The takeaway is — get tested and listen to your body!” she urged.
Her announcement triggered an outpouring of love from fans and fellow celebrities across Australia and beyond.
TV host Lisa Wilkinson wrote, “All of the country, and many more besides, are behind you. All my love.”
Chef Poh Ling Yeow added, “You look beautiful as a Goog my love… We’re right behind you. Love u and see you soon.”
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong also sent support, saying, “Your courage, humor and heart have inspired so many of us for so long.”
Actress Rebecca Gibney chimed in with a sweet throwback, promising, “Let’s go sing Doris under the Westgate again next time I’m in Melbourne.”
Others like Megan Gale and Teresa Palmer offered up heartfelt encouragement, calling Szubanski an icon, an inspiration, and a national treasure.
As the entertainment world rallies around her, fans everywhere are sending strength and love to Magda in what promises to be a difficult but hopeful road ahead.
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What's Up Team
She doesn’t look like she lives a healthy lifestyle… but hope the treatments work…