Magda Szubanski has shocked fans after revealing she’s been diagnosed with stage four cancer. Taking to Instagram, the Kath & Kim star shared a video speaking directly to camera, informing followers of her diagnosis. In the clip, Szubanski announced she had a “very rare, very aggressive, very serious lymphoma”.
In the caption, she clarified the cancer is Mantle Cell Lymphoma—a rare blood cancer. “It’s serious, but I’ve started one of the best treatments available (the Nordic protocol), and I’m lucky to be getting absolutely world-class care here in Melbourne,” the caption continued. “I won’t sugar-coat it: it’s rough. But I’m hopeful. I’m being lovingly cared for by friends and family, my medical team is brilliant, and I’ve never felt more held by the people around me.”
In the video, Szubanski, 64, sported a shaved head, which she said she shaved in anticipation of her hair falling out in the coming weeks. She added that she’s surrounded by friends and family and “an incredible medical support team.”
“I feel very fortunate,” she continued.
Szubanski made a special request that fans keep a respectful distance if they see her in public. “I’ll be lying very low while my immune system takes a hammering, so if you see me out and about—don’t hug me, kiss me, or breathe anywhere near me! Wave enthusiastically from a safe distance and know I love you madly.”
Towards the end of the clip, the comedienne broke into laughter, throwing her hands up and saying, “what are you gonna do?”
What type of cancer does Magda Szubanski have?
Magda Szubansnki has been diagnosed with stage four Mantle Cell Lymphoma, a rare blood cancer. This type of cancer is a form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and is very uncommon. It specifically targets B-cells (a type of white blood cell) and the outer area of lymph nodes, known as the ‘mantle zone’.
The cancer reportedly affects 1 in 200,000 people. The prognosis for Szubanski’s cancer estimates a five-year survival rate of 65 per cent.
How did Magda Szubanski receive her cancer diagnosis?
Szubanski said she only received her diagnosis “incidentally” following a routine breast screen. “This is an obscure cancer and was only discovered incidentally via a breast screen where they found my lymph nodes were up,” she explained on Instagram. “TBH, I’ve been feeling pretty ratshit for ages. So I asked for extra bloods and – voila! So the take away is – get tested and listen to your body!”
Celebrities share their support for Magda Szubanski
Szubanski’s famous friends shared an outpouring of well-wishes for the star in the comments section of her post. Among them were her many colleagues and peers from Australian TV.
Several current and former hosts of The Project, on which Szubanski has appeared as a panellist, shared messages of support. Carrie Bickmore wrote, “You’ve got this 💪 yelling at you now from a distance that we all love you ❤️❤️.” Meanwhile, Peter Hellier wrote, “Sending you all my love Mags!!!!! You (and we) know how strong you are!! ❤️”
Actress and model Teresa Palmer wrote: “Oh Mags, I’m so sorry to hear this s**t news, you’re such an inspiration to so many of us, an icon for the ages. Hope you can feel all the strength being sent your way from our crew and everyone who loves you.”
Actor Hugh Sheridan, who shared the stage with Magda in a production of the musical A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, also shared his love. “I love you so much Magda. Massive hugs being sent to you and so many more in person to come. ❤️,” he commented.
Australian veteran of the screen Sam Neill simply said, “Right there with you darling xx.” Neil was also diagnosed with a different rare blood cancer in 2022. Advancements in treatment mean he is now in remission.
Szubanski has been a pillar of the Australian arts and media industry for 40 years. She first rose to fame in sketch comedy series like The D Generation and Fast Forward in the ’80s and ’90s. She later received international acclaim for her roles in Kath & Kim and the Babe movies.
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