“She’s Not Well, But…” – David Campbell’s Heartfelt Update on Magda Szubanski Moves Australia to Tears

Melbourne, Australia – January 8, 2026 – As the nation continues to rally behind beloved comedian and actress Magda Szubanski in her battle with stage 4 Mantle Cell Lymphoma, close friend David Campbell has shared a raw and emotional update that has left fans weeping across social media.

The Today Extra host, whose family shares an unbreakable bond with Szubanski – she is godmother to his 10-year-old daughter Betty – spoke candidly in December 2025 about how the outpouring of love from the public and loved ones is sustaining her through this challenging time. “Magda is really receiving everyone’s goodwill,” Campbell told The Sydney Morning Herald. “I think that’s the thing that’s been keeping her going. Certainly, she’s been getting it from our family, but also from the nation.”

Campbell and his wife Lisa Hewitt revealed how they explained the situation to their children in simple, honest terms – words that echoed Magda’s own message to the world: “She’s not well, but she is surrounded by the most incredible doctors, particularly in Melbourne.” Those quiet five words – “She’s not well, but…” – spoke volumes, capturing the gravity of her condition while clinging to hope, expert care, and unwavering support.

Despite the seriousness, Campbell emphasised Szubanski’s indomitable spirit and trademark humour remain intact. “She laughs at everything. She laughs at us. She laughs at herself. And she made us laugh at the cancer with her,” he shared. “And they say laughter is the best medicine. It’s kind of true. It does make people feel better.”

Szubanski, 64, first shared her diagnosis in May 2025 via an emotional Instagram video, shaving her head in preparation for chemotherapy and describing the rare, aggressive blood cancer as “one of the nasty ones.” She has been undergoing the intensive Nordic protocol – a combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy designed to shrink tumours in phases – while keeping fans updated with her characteristic wit and gratitude.

In her own words from hospital videos throughout the year, Szubanski has described the overwhelming “tsunami” of love from Australians as a source of strength: “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.”

Campbell’s update, coming amid the festive season as he hosted Carols by Candlelight, resonated deeply. Fans flooded social media with tears and tributes: “Magda’s courage is everything,” “David’s words broke me – sending all the love,” and “She’s not well, but… we’re all holding onto that hope.”

Hypothetically, in the quiet moments away from cameras, the weight of stage 4 cancer – with its physical toll, infection risks, and emotional highs and lows – tests even the strongest. Yet surrounded by top Melbourne specialists, lifelong friends like the Campbells, and a nation’s affection, Szubanski continues to inspire.

As 2026 begins, Australia holds onto that “but…” – the expert care, the laughter, the love – reminding us of Magda’s profound impact and the hope that keeps her, and us, going.