Still Laughing: Magda Szubanski’s Hospital Update and the Grace of Facing Stage 4 Cancer
Magda Szubanski has always been more than an actress. She’s been a mirror, a megaphone, a balm. Whether she’s playing the hilariously awkward Sharon Strzelecki in Kath & Kim, writing about trauma and identity in her memoir Reckoning, or advocating for marriage equality, Magda has never shied away from truth. And now, as she faces one of the most brutal truths of all—stage 4 cancer—she’s showing the world what it means to fight with humor, vulnerability, and heart.
On August 31, 2025, Magda shared a video from her hospital bed. Her head was shaved. Her voice was soft. But her spirit? Undeniably radiant.
“This is a special shout-out to little ten-year-old Annabella Willis in Adelaide,” she said, smiling gently. “Thank you so much for your impersonation of Sharon Strzelecki. I’m in here having chemo, and it really cheered me up. I’m very touched, and that was a beautiful thing to do, thank you, my sweet”.
It was a moment of grace. Of connection. Of a woman in pain choosing joy.
🧠 The Diagnosis: Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Magda revealed her diagnosis in May: Mantle Cell Lymphoma, a rare and aggressive blood cancer. “It is one of the nasty ones, unfortunately,” she said. “But I’m surrounded by beautiful friends, family, and an incredible medical support team. Honestly, we have the best in the world here in Australia, particularly in Melbourne. I feel very fortunate”.
Her treatment follows the Nordic protocol—a grueling multi-phase regimen involving powerful chemotherapy drugs. It’s not gentle. It’s not easy. But it’s her best shot.
And through it all, she’s been candid. She’s posted updates, jokes, Lego builds, and messages of gratitude. She’s let us in.
Because that’s who Magda is.
🎭 The Performer in the Patient
Even in a hospital gown, Magda is still performing—not for applause, but for connection. She’s still Sharon. Still the woman who made us laugh until we cried. Still the one who knows that humor is a lifeline.
“I am such an 11-year-old boy trapped in a 64-year-old lesbian’s body,” she joked in July, showing off her Lego kit. “Getting so bored now. This will keep me busy for a bit. Tricky with chemo-induced numbness in fingertips, but…I’ve planned ahead and ordered a building kit with pliers and finger protectors!! GOOD TIMES!!!”
It’s not denial. It’s defiance. It’s choosing to live fully—even when life hurts.
🧵 Threads of Connection
Magda’s update wasn’t just about her health. It was about Annabella—the 10-year-old fan who dressed as Sharon for Book Week. It was about the thousands of messages pouring in from fans, friends, and fellow celebrities. Nigella Lawson wrote, “Sending all the love in the world to you, Magda darling.” Gorgi Coghlan added, “Sending so much love.” And Magda responded with her signature warmth: “When I go online and look at those messages, every time my heart lifts and I feel that much stronger to deal with the cancer. So thank you for the love that is just pouring my way. I really feel it”.
She’s immunocompromised now. She can’t hug. Can’t kiss. Can’t be near anyone. “Don’t hug me, kiss me, or breathe anywhere near me!” she said, laughing. “Wave enthusiastically from a safe distance and know I love you madly”.
It’s a new kind of intimacy. One built on words, gestures, and shared memory.
🔥 The Trolls and the Truth
Magda’s openness hasn’t shielded her from cruelty. After her diagnosis, conspiracy theorists tried to link her cancer to the COVID-19 vaccine—citing her appearance in a public health ad during lockdown. She shut them down.
“Let me be very, very clear…I helped out as a good citizen to boost morale during COVID, but I NEVAH EVAH was an ‘avid supporter of vaccinations’ and categorically DID NOT insist on them for others. Why? Because—I’m not a frickin’ doctor!!”
It was classic Magda: fierce, funny, and unflinchingly honest.
🕊️ The Hall of Fame Moment
In August, Magda was inducted into the Logie Hall of Fame. She couldn’t attend in person, but she sent a video message. It was tender. Grateful. Brave.
She thanked the fans. The industry. The people who’ve stood by her. And she reminded us that even in absence, presence is possible.
Because Magda’s legacy isn’t just on screen. It’s in every person who’s felt seen by her work. Every queer kid who found courage in her activism. Every viewer who laughed through tears because Sharon Strzelecki made them feel okay.
💡 What We Learn
From Magda Szubanski, we learn that illness doesn’t erase identity. That humor can coexist with heartbreak. That vulnerability is strength.
We learn that connection heals. That a child’s costume can lift a woman’s spirit. That love, when shared, becomes medicine.
We learn that fame isn’t about spotlight—it’s about impact.
And we learn that even from a hospital bed, a woman can still shine.
