The legendary star of Rocky IV, Dolph Lundgren, is sharing his deeply personal battle with cancer—a journey that has been unfolding quietly for the past eight years. In a candid conversation, Dolph reveals the highs and lows of his health journey, the treatments he endured, and how he’s fighting back against the odds. Scroll down to get the full story on how this iconic actor is taking on cancer with the same determination he brought to his legendary roles.
When Did Dolph Lundgren First Learn About His Cancer Diagnosis?
In a heartfelt interview with In Depth With Graham Bensinger in May 2023, Dolph Lundgren broke his silence on the cancer diagnosis that changed his life. For the first time, he opened up about the challenges he’s faced and the reasons behind keeping his battle private for so long.
"This is the first time I’ve ever spoken about it," Dolph admitted. "If I can help just one person going through something similar, then it’s worth sharing. It’s not about me—it’s about helping others who might be in the same boat."
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The journey began in 2015 when doctors discovered a tumor on the Aquaman star’s kidney. After successfully removing the tumor, Dolph committed to regular check-ups to monitor his health closely. For the next five years, everything seemed under control, but life threw another curveball in 2020. While dealing with acid reflux during a visit to Sweden, an MRI revealed more tumors in the same area.
What Did Dolph Lundgren Face After His Initial Diagnosis?
Determined to fight, Dolph underwent surgery to remove six additional tumors. Unfortunately, the battle was far from over. Doctors soon discovered a new tumor on his liver, one that had grown to the size of a lemon and was inoperable. Faced with this grim reality, Dolph turned to systemic therapy, a treatment that came with severe side effects like weight loss and painful mouth sores.
"It was tough," Dolph recalled. "The doctors told me I had only a few months to live. At that point, you start reflecting on your life. You think about all the incredible experiences you’ve had, the people you’ve met, and the memories you’ve made. For me, it was a moment of gratitude. I’ve lived a great life—five lifetimes in one, really."
Dolph Lundgren Shares His Latest Update on Cancer Treatment
With two children, Ida and Greta, from his previous marriage to Anette Qviberg, Dolph knew he had to keep fighting. Seeking a second opinion, he connected with Dr. Alexandra Drakaki, who identified a genetic mutation that could be targeted with a new treatment. The results were nothing short of miraculous—within months, the tumors shrank by 90 percent.
"Right now, I’m focused on removing the remaining scar tissue from those tumors," Dolph explained. "If the surgery goes well, there should be no active cancer left. The medication I’m taking is designed to keep everything suppressed and prevent any recurrence. It’s been a long road, but I’m hopeful for the future."
