Australia is celebrating alongside beloved performer Magda Szubanski, who has revealed she is in remission after completing chemotherapy for a rare and aggressive cancer.
The 64-year-old icon, who has been bravely sharing updates throughout her health battle, announced on Friday that she has finished treatment for stage four Mantle cell lymphoma – a rare form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma – and is now in remission.
“I’ve completed chemo and I am now in remission,” she said, beaming with relief. “Phew, big relief. It’s not a cure, but because I got a good remission, that hopefully means that I will keep the cancer at bay for a good long time.”
The joyous news sparked an outpouring of love from fans who have followed her journey closely. Szubanski described the support she received as nothing short of overwhelming. “It was a tsunami,” she said. “I swear to God, it helped me not only emotionally, I think it really helped me physically, too. I felt so loved up and cared for.”
She also paid heartfelt tribute to the medical professionals who guided her through months of gruelling treatment.
“Eternal gratitude to my medical team. We have the most incredible medical people in this country,” she said.
“We’re so lucky. And there’s not a day goes by that I don’t give profound thanks to the medical community.”
In true Szubanski style, the Kath & Kim star couldn’t resist injecting humour into the moment — even addressing bizarre online rumours that she had died during her treatment. Some social media accounts had previously created fake fundraisers, while others falsely claimed she had passed away.
“Seems I’m not dead,” she quipped to camera. “Better check with social media, because that knows more about me than I do.”
While the news is overwhelmingly positive, Szubanski gently reminded fans that her recovery journey is ongoing. Though in remission, her immune system remains fragile after chemotherapy, meaning she must be cautious in public.
“Please be careful,” she urged.
“I can’t hug. I can’t do the hugging. Because the thing is – this is on behalf of me and all people going through cancer – when you’re going through the chemo, you’re completely immune-annihilated.
“Even in the maintenance phase, which is where I am now, you’re still immunocompromised.
“So, we’re not being precious. And I would love to hug you – but I can’t. Because what’s a sniffle for you could, really, maybe kill me. Just saying.”
For now, though, the focus is firmly on celebration. After months of uncertainty, one of Australia’s most cherished entertainers has delivered the news everyone was hoping for – remission, strength and a renewed sense of hope.
Images: Instagram
