Magda Szubanski speaks about having stage 4 cancer: her journey and current battles with Mantle Cell Lymphoma

Popular Australian comedian and actress Magda Szubanski has confirmed that she is fighting stage 4 Mantle Cell Lymphoma, a rare and aggressive type of blood cancer, announcing her diagnosis and future hope in an emotional social media statement on Thursday, May 29th.

Szubanski, best known for her iconic role as Sharon Strzelecki in the cult television series “Kath & Kim,” announced the news alongside a candid explanation of her journey so far. “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,” she wrote.

The actress described her current state with honesty and courage, saying, “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.”


The news was a shock, Szubanski said, after an incidental discovery during a routine breast screen prompted doctors to look at her lymph nodes. "This is a rare cancer and was only diagnosed incidentally through a breast screen when they found my lymph nodes were swollen," she said. She conceded, "TBH, I've been feeling pretty ratshit for ages. So I requested extra bloods and—voila! So the takeaway is—get tested and listen to your body!

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Szubanski’s career has spanned decades, beginning with her breakthrough in the sketch comedy series “Fast Forward” and “Full Frontal” in the 1990s, alongside “Kath & Kim” co-stars Jane Turner and Gina Riley.The three went on to develop "Big Girl's Blouse," the series which originally featured the much-loved characters that would come to be starred by "Kath & Kim" in 2002.

Szubanski has received several Logie and AFI Award nominations, and won the Most Popular Comedy Personality Logie award in 1991, 1992, and 1993 for her performances on "Fast Forward" and "Full Frontal." Now that she is confronting this health issue, Szubanski is taking a step back from the public eye to concentrate on her recovery and treatment.

"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 wildly from a distance and know that I love you crazy," she wrote, mixing her signature wit with a heartfelt message for her fans and friends.

Her announcement has prompted an outpouring of support from around the world, with fans and colleagues praising her bravery and resilience. Szubanski’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of regular health checks and listening to one’s body, as she continues to face her diagnosis with hope and the support of those who love her.