Melbourne, Australia (AP) — Australian comedian and actor Magda Szubanski is renowned for her role in the television sitcom Kath and Kim and the film Babe.
A 64-year-old resident of Melbourne recently shared on social media that she has commenced stage 4 treatment for Mantle cell lymphoma, which she characterized as “a rare and rapidly advancing blood cancer.”
“It’s serious, but I have started one of the best treatments available (the Scandinavian Protocol). I’m fortunate to receive exceptional care here in Melbourne,” Szubanski wrote.
“I won’t sugarcoat it: it’s tough. But I’m optimistic about the journey ahead. I’m surrounded by the love of friends and family. My medical team is outstanding, and I’ve never felt more embraced by those around me,” she continued.
Szubanski mentioned that she shaved her head prior to filming the video, “hoping everything would fall into place in a few weeks.” This was a clear nod to her chemotherapy treatment.
She gained international recognition for her portrayal of the farmer’s wife, Esme Hoggett, in the 1995 film “Babe,” which narrates the story of a pig aspiring to be a sheepdog and was nominated for seven Academy Awards.
Szubanski revisited her role in the 1998 sequel, “Babe: Pig in the City.”
She also played the sports-enthusiast Sharon Strzelecki on the Australian sitcom Kath and Kim, which aired from 2002 to 2005 and influenced the American remake of the series.
In 2006, Szubanski announced her role as Miss Viola in the animated films “Happy Feet” and “Happy Feet Two” in 2011, directed by George Miller.
Szubanski was born on April 12, 1961, in Liverpool, England, and moved to Melbourne with her family in 1966.
Source: apnews.com