Olivia Munn shares an emotional hospital video with John Mulaney as she reflects on her double mastectomy and urges breast cancer research support.
Olivia Munn is opening up about one of the most vulnerable moments of her breast cancer battle, sharing an emotional message with fans on World Breast Cancer Research Day.
On August 18, the Newsroom star posted a video on Instagram showing a tender exchange with her husband, comedian John Mulaney, just before she underwent a double mastectomy in May 2023. Sitting upright in her hospital bed, Munn appeared visibly moved as Mulaney leaned in, rested his forehead against hers, and offered words of comfort before she was wheeled into surgery.
In her caption, Munn revealed that the procedure was the first of five surgeries she would undergo in what she described as a “determined battle to beat breast cancer.” She shared that both her own diagnosis and her mother’s were aggressive, fast-moving forms of cancer, and credited ongoing medical research for giving them a fighting chance.
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“Today is #WorldBreastCancerResearchDay,” she wrote. “My breast cancer and my mother’s breast cancer are both very aggressive, fast-moving cancers. And because of funding for breast cancer research we both had a path to survival.”
Munn explained that she is currently on an endocrine therapy treatment plan. She noted that the very research she was honoring has been critical in advancing these therapies, pointing out that some of the medications were only approved by the FDA in the late 1970s, with new treatments developed much later.
Alongside her personal story, the actress highlighted the urgent need for continued research funding, pointing followers to reputable charities and encouraging support for those affected. “To anyone who’s going through cancer or had gone through cancer, I stand side by side with you and wishing you luck and strength every step of the way. 🤍,” she wrote.
Fans quickly filled her comments with words of encouragement and gratitude. One wrote, “Such a sweet moment in a really heartbreaking situation. You have a great support system! Thank you for bringing awareness!” Another shared, “What a scary time Olivia. I’m sure that sharing your story will help many others ❤️.”
Others experiencing similar journeys connected deeply with Munn’s post. One person, preparing for their own double mastectomy, admitted, “I am nervous but determined to also have the same outcome!! 🙏🏽.” Another commented, “It’s so scary! I was in tears as I was going under. Glad you had your support system there. 😊.”
Supporters praised Munn as “incredible,” “impactful,” and “very brave” for using her platform to spread awareness. For Munn, the heartfelt post was both a reflection on her personal fight and a call to action for more investment in research that saves lives.
