Beloved Australian comedian Magda Szubanski has issued a stark warning to her fans and followers, urging them not to fall for fake online fundraisers that falsely claim to be collecting money for her medical treatment.
Comedian's Public Warning Against Fraudulent Appeals
The 64-year-old actress, who publicly revealed her diagnosis of stage 4 Mantle Cell Lymphoma in May last year, took to her official Instagram account on Saturday to expose the scam. She shared images of the fraudulent fundraisers, making it clear they were not associated with her in any way.
"Dear peeps. This lovely lady - whoever she is - is not me," Szubanski wrote alongside the pictures. "I hope she's doing well. But please don't think it's me and DEFINITELY DO NOT DONATE MONEY TO ANY MEDICAL FUNDRAISER THAT PURPORTS TO BE ME!!"
She emphasised that the only authentic source for information about her health and wellbeing is her own verified Instagram profile.
Szubanski's Candid Health Journey with Humour
Since her diagnosis, the iconic performer has been remarkably open about her battle with cancer, sharing regular updates from both her home and hospital. Her approach has blended raw honesty with the signature wit that made her a national treasure.
When she first announced her condition, she posted a photo of her shaved head, explaining it was a preemptive move ahead of expected hair loss from chemotherapy. Mantle Cell Lymphoma is a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer. According to the Leukemia Foundation, there were 330 cases diagnosed in Australia in 2020.
Her resilience and humour have shone through in her updates. In a video shared last October, she appeared in high spirits while thanking drag queen duo Trixie and Katya for their appreciation of Kath & Kim, the show that launched her famous character, Sharon Strzelecki.
From Gratitude to Signature Szubanski Humour
In true form, Szubanski seamlessly shifted from expressing gratitude to delivering laughs. She revealed the surprising inspiration behind Sharon's iconic brown bob haircut, linking it to 1970s ice-skater Dorothy Hamill's 'wedge' cut.
"Sharon's hair is actually a nod to the Dorothy Hamill wedge," she explained. "Dorothy Hamill being an ice-skater in the late 70s who had a very sensible hair cut because every sporty girl needs a sensible, functional fitness hair-do. Mine is courtesy of chemo couture."
She captioned the post with her characteristic blend of poignancy and punchlines: "Maybe I now qualify to come on the Bald and the Beautiful?? #chemocoiffure." She even included a classic Sharon Strzelecki-style excuse for the character's absence, writing: "Ps Sharon sends her love. She can't be here sadly as she got her netball bib caught in the sliding door of the team's Toyota Tarago people mover."
Her latest warning serves as a crucial reminder for the public to verify the authenticity of charitable pleas online, especially those involving high-profile individuals.
