Magda Szubanski to Release Second Memoir, “I Can’t Tell You But I Will,” Exploring Mother’s Decline and Personal Grief
Beloved Australian entertainer Magda Szubanski, known for her iconic role in Kath & Kim, is set to release her second memoir on September 29, 2026. Titled I Can’t Tell You But I Will, the book promises an intimate and unflinching exploration of her complex relationship with her ailing mother, Margaret.
This forthcoming release follows Szubanski’s highly acclaimed 2015 memoir, Reckoning, which delved into her childhood and her father’s clandestine past as a Polish spy during World War Two. Reckoning garnered significant praise, earning the prestigious Book of the Year award at the 2016 Australian Book Industry Awards.
I Can’t Tell You But I Will is described as a hard-hitting examination of grief, with Szubanski bravely recounting the personal battle she faced while navigating her emotions privately, all while maintaining a prominent public career. The memoir is expected to offer a candid look at the challenges of confronting mortality and loss, particularly within the context of a family dynamic.
The announcement of Szubanski’s new literary endeavour comes just weeks after she shared the uplifting news of her remission from stage four cancer. Diagnosed in May 2025 with Mantle Cell lymphoma, a rare and aggressive blood cancer, the 64-year-old comedian underwent chemotherapy. In February 2026, she joyfully informed her fans that she had completed her treatment and was officially in remission.
“It’s not a cure, but because I’ve got a good remission, that hopefully means that I’ll keep the cancer at bay for a good long time,” Szubanski explained at the time, expressing cautious optimism about her health.
During an Instagram video message, Szubanski expressed her profound gratitude for the outpouring of support she received from fans. She also took the opportunity to address and condemn online trolls who had spread malicious rumours about her health status. With her characteristic wit, she quipped, “Seems I’m not dead, I’d better check with social media because that knows more about me than I do.”
She continued, “Thank you! I’m alive! I love you. DON’T believe anything unless you see it HERE on my Instagram feed or from a reputable news source,” she emphasised in the caption accompanying her video. This statement served as a clear directive for her followers, urging them to rely on verified information rather than unsubstantiated gossip.
Key Themes Explored in “I Can’t Tell You But I Will”:
- Complex Family Relationships: The memoir will delve into the intricacies of Szubanski’s relationship with her dying mother, Margaret. This is expected to be a central focus, exploring the unique dynamics and emotional complexities that arise during such a challenging period.
- Grief and Loss: Szubanski will offer a raw and honest account of navigating the profound emotions associated with grief and the impending loss of a loved one.
- Public vs. Private Life: The book will shed light on the experience of managing significant personal turmoil while simultaneously fulfilling public professional obligations. This contrast between internal struggles and external appearances is a recurring theme in memoirs dealing with celebrity.
- Resilience and Hope: Following her recent battle with cancer, the memoir may also touch upon themes of resilience, hope, and the human capacity to persevere through adversity.
The anticipation for I Can’t Tell You But I Will is high, given the success and critical acclaim of Reckoning. Szubanski’s ability to blend humour with profound emotional honesty has resonated deeply with audiences, making her a cherished figure in Australian culture.
Her public life has seen numerous triumphs, including her induction into the Logies Hall of Fame, where she delivered a moving and tearful speech. This demonstrates the depth of her connection with the Australian public and the impact of her career.
Meanwhile, the broader public continues to follow significant health updates from public figures, such as that of Kate Middleton, who recently shared a personal health confession following her own cancer diagnosis.
Magda Szubanski’s journey, marked by both personal challenges and professional achievements, continues to inspire. I Can’t Tell You But I Will is poised to be another insightful and emotionally resonant contribution to her literary legacy.
