Magda Szubanski Shares Courageous Cancer Battle Update

Beloved Australian actress Magda Szubanski, known for her roles in Kath & Kim and Babe, recently shared a heartfelt update from her hospital bed. At 64, she is undergoing treatment for stage-four mantle cell lymphoma, a rare and aggressive blood cancer.

In an Instagram video, Szubanski thanked ten-year-old Annabella from Adelaide, who dressed as her character Sharon Strzelecki for Book Week—a gesture that lifted her spirits during chemotherapy. “Thank you, my sweet. Lots of love to you,” she said warmly, despite the toll of treatment.

Diagnosed after swollen lymph nodes were found during a breast screening, Szubanski revealed her illness publicly in May, showing a shaved head as she prepared for chemotherapy.

Despite the daunting diagnosis, she expressed deep gratitude for her family, friends, and medical team, and optimism about Australia’s world-class cancer care. With her trademark humor, she warned fans to avoid close contact due to her weakened immune system, quipping, “Wave enthusiastically from a safe distance and know I love you madly.”

Messages of support have poured in from fans and fellow actors alike. Szubanski’s openness, resilience, and humor continue to inspire, making her a beacon of strength through her cancer journey.