Actress Olivia Munn Discloses Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Double Mastectomy Procedure

Olivia Munn Underwent Diagnosed With Breast Cancer

Karwai Tang/WireImage

Olivia Munn surprised her fans when she shared that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer in secret last year.

She disclosed in a detailed Instagram post on Wednesday, March 13 that in February of 2023, she decided to prioritize her health by taking a genetic test that screens for 90 different cancer genes. The results came back negative for all, including the well-known BRCA gene associated with breast cancer. Olivia was relieved to find out that her sister Sara also tested negative. They celebrated over the phone when they shared the good news. Additionally, during that same winter, Olivia had a normal mammogram.

Despite initially testing negative, she was later diagnosed with breast cancer just two months later. Since then, she has already undergone "four surgeries."

She shared, "It's surprising, but I've only shed tears twice. I suppose I didn't feel like I had the luxury of time to cry. My attention became laser-focused, and I pushed aside any emotions that I thought might get in the way of me staying level-headed."

Munn kept her diagnosis private at first to deal with the difficult parts on her own, such as undergoing a double mastectomy. She went from feeling fine one day to waking up in a hospital bed after a 10-hour surgery.

In her social media post, Munn considered herself fortunate and expressed gratitude to her OB-GYN, Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi, for detecting her cancer early enough to explore treatment options. She also appreciated the support from her loved ones during this challenging time and gave a special mention to her partner, John Mulaney.

She expressed her gratitude on Wednesday for her partner's dedication to researching every aspect of her medical procedures and medications, including potential side effects and recovery expectations. He was there before each surgery and after she woke up, always ensuring that photos of their son Malcolm were the first thing she saw upon opening her eyes. The couple welcomed their son in December 2021.

Olivia shared a post on her social media account (@oliviamunn). In her heartfelt message, she expressed her gratitude towards the medical staff who supported her during her battle with cancer. She also thanked her friends who have gone through similar experiences and those who connected her with others who have faced breast cancer. Olivia appreciated their guidance during the tough and overwhelming times.

Munn shared photos on her Instagram from the hospital, showing herself with a picture frame of her partner Mulaney and their son on her hospital bed tray.

In the caption, she revealed her breast cancer diagnosis and expressed her hope that sharing her story would provide comfort, inspiration, and support for others going through similar experiences.

In one video, Munn received an uplifting pep talk from Aliabadi before undergoing a procedure. “Do it for him, do it for your baby. This stuff doesn’t matter,” she told the actress, who responded, “Thank you … I’m ready.”

Several celebrities flooded the post’s comments with well-wishes and encouraging messages. “Thank you for fighting so hard to be here for us. Malc and I adore you ️,” Mulaney wrote on Wednesday. Matt Bomer commented, “You are so strong Olivia! Grateful you found this early. Sending you love always.”

Terry Crews showed his support by leaving heart and fire emojis in the comments, and Kaley Cuoco expressed gratitude by saying, "Thank you for sharing this! Wow."

Olivia Munn shared her breast cancer diagnosis just three days after attending the 2024 Oscars with Mulaney. At the event, she looked stunning in a metallic Fendi Couture gown paired with Bucherer Fine Jewellery diamond accessories, while Mulaney rocked an all-black Fendi Men's tuxedo.

Before the awards show on Sunday, March 10, Munn shared a hilarious video on Instagram. In the video, she was standing up in the car on the way to the ceremony. She jokingly called her outfit a "standing-up dress" and then Mulaney joined in, saying he was a "sitting-down guy."

Editor's P/S:

Olivia Munn's courageous decision to share her breast cancer journey serves as an inspiring testament to the strength and resilience of those battling the disease. Her story highlights the importance of proactive health measures, including genetic testing and regular screenings, which can lead to early detection and improved treatment outcomes. Munn's candid account of her diagnosis, surgeries, and emotional struggles offers valuable insights into the complexities of facing cancer, emphasizing the need for support from loved ones and the medical community.

Munn's unwavering determination and positive outlook, despite the challenges she has faced, are truly admirable. Her decision to prioritize her health and seek medical attention when she did may have saved her life. By sharing her story, she not only raises awareness about breast cancer but also provides hope and encouragement to others facing similar diagnoses. Munn's journey serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to maintain a sense of purpose and find strength through the support of those around us.