Magda Szubanski Shares Emotional Hospital Update Amid Stage 4 Cancer Treatment
Beloved Australian actress Magda Szubanski has given fans a heartfelt update from her hospital bed as she continues her fight against stage-four cancer.
The 64-year-old star, famous for her unforgettable roles in Kath & Kim and the Babe films, took to Instagram over the weekend to post a video message. In it, she thanked a young fan who dressed as Sharon Strzelecki—the quirky netball-obsessed character she brought to life on Kath & Kim—for Book Week.
Smiling despite her treatment, Szubanski said:
“This is a special shout-out to 10-year-old Annabella in Adelaide. Thank you so much for your impression of Sharon Strzelecki. I’m in here having chemo and it really cheered me up. I’m really touched. That was a beautiful thing to do. Lots of love to you.”
Alongside the video, she captioned: “Chemo is smacking me around right now.”
Cancer Diagnosis and Journey
Back in May, Szubanski revealed she had been diagnosed with stage-four mantle cell lymphoma, a rare and aggressive blood cancer. The illness was discovered “by accident” after a breast screening highlighted swollen lymph nodes.
At the time, she candidly shared a video of herself with a shaved head, saying she was preparing for the inevitable hair loss.
“It is one of the nasty ones, unfortunately,” she admitted in an earlier interview. “But the positive thing is I’m surrounded by beautiful friends, family, and an incredible medical team. We are lucky to have world-class care here in Australia, especially in Melbourne. I feel very fortunate.”
She also expressed hope in medical advances: “New treatments keep coming down the pipeline all the time.”
Staying Connected with Fans
While grateful for the love and support pouring in, the actress has also reminded fans to be mindful of her weakened immune system during treatment.
“Please keep your distance because I will be very immunocompromised,” she explained. “No hugs, kisses, or breathing near me! Just wave enthusiastically from a safe distance and know I love you madly.”