Actor Dolph Lundgren, known for his role as Ivan Drago in Rocky IV and Creed 2, recently shared on the In Depth With Graham Bensinger show that he has been battling kidney cancer for almost a decade.
Lundgren first received his diagnosis in 2015, and after surgery removed the tumor, he was cancer-free for five years until it came back in the form of kidney and liver tumors.
As his symptoms worsened, Lundgren began to worry about the seriousness of his situation. In 2020, he was told he only had two or three years to live.
Despite the grim prognosis, Lundgren did not give up and sought a second opinion from UCLA Medical Center oncologist Dr. Alexandra Drakaki. Drakaki initiated a different medical treatment, and Lundgren began a new drug while filming Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom. The medication has helped reduce the size of his tumors by up to 90%.
Although Lundgren’s tumors have shrunk dramatically, he will still undergo surgery to remove them. His doctor hopes to continue the treatment and monitor his progress with biopsies to identify new targets for treatment.
Lundgren spoke candidly about his disease, acknowledging that he has had a great life and has lived five lives in one. He expressed his determination to keep fighting and his gratitude for the love and support of those around him. While he didn’t feel bitter, he did feel sorry for his children and fiancée.
The actor’s story is a reminder of the importance of early detection and seeking second opinions when faced with a severe illness. Lundgren’s resilience and positive attitude in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration to many.
