Australian comedian and actress Magda Szubanski, widely recognized for her roles in the television show Kath and Kim and the beloved film Babe, has announced that she is battling a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer. The 64-year-old revealed on social media that she has been diagnosed with stage four mantle cell lymphoma, a fast-progressing type of blood cancer. Szubanski’s candid post conveyed both the seriousness of her condition and her determination to fight it.
Facing Cancer with Strength, Support, and Advanced Treatment in Melbourne’s World-Class Care System
Despite the grim nature of her diagnosis, Szubanski shared that she has begun a leading-edge treatment regimen known as the Nordic protocol. She expressed gratitude for the “world-class care” she is receiving in Melbourne and noted that she feels well-supported by her medical team. While acknowledging the harsh realities of her treatment, she remained hopeful and described feeling surrounded by love from her friends and family.
Magda Szubanski Battles Rare Blood Cancer as She Begins Aggressive Treatment with Hope and HumorSzubanski also revealed that she had shaved her head in anticipation of hair loss from chemotherapy. Her decision to confront the effects of treatment head-on highlights her pragmatic and resilient approach to her diagnosis. By sharing this personal moment, she demonstrated her openness and the importance of maintaining a sense of agency and self-care during such a challenging time.
A Storied Career in Comedy, Film, and Voice Acting Spanning Generations and Continents
Szubanski’s announcement comes after decades of success in television and film. She gained international fame playing Esme Hoggett in Babe (1995), a film that received seven Academy Award nominations, and returned in the sequel Babe: Pig in the City (1998). On television, her portrayal of Sharon Strzelecki in Kath and Kim made her a household name in Australia, and the show’s popularity even led to an American adaptation.
Born in Liverpool, England, on April 12, 1961, Szubanski moved to Melbourne in 1966 with her family, where she would go on to become one of Australia’s most beloved entertainers. Beyond her roles in Babe and Kath and Kim, she lent her voice to the animated films Happy Feet and Happy Feet Two, directed by George Miller. Her openness about her health reflects her longstanding connection with the public and her courage in facing adversity.