Magda Szubanski has always been known for her humor and warmth, but her latest message to fans carried a mix of vulnerability and resilience. The 64-year-old actress, celebrated for her roles in Kath & Kim and the Babe films, recently shared an update from her hospital bed while undergoing treatment for stage-four cancer.
In a video posted to Instagram, Szubanski was seen smiling despite the tubes and hospital gown, taking a moment to thank a young fan who had unknowingly lifted her spirits. Ten-year-old Annabella from Adelaide had dressed up as Sharon Strzelecki, Szubanski’s beloved netball-obsessed character from Kath & Kim, for Book Week. “This is a special shout-out to Annabella,” she said, her voice warm but tired. “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 such a beautiful thing to do. Thank you, my sweet. Lots of love to you.”
Her caption, raw in its honesty, read simply: “Chemo is smacking me around right now.” It was a reminder of the difficult road she is walking, even as she continues to reach outward with gratitude.