Hollywood actor Gabourey Sidibe’s husband, Brandon Frankel, has revealed he is facing a thyroid cancer diagnosis, sharing details publicly about his health and treatment journey.
Frankel, who married Sidibe in 2021 and shares twin toddlers Cooper and Maya with the Precious star, announced Friday on social media that he has been diagnosed with Stage I papillary thyroid cancer — the most common form of thyroid cancer.
In an emotional Instagram post, Frankel wrote: “Things I never thought I’d have to post: I was diagnosed with Stage I Papillary Thyroid cancer.” He shared photos from a hospital bed alongside his wife, 42, smiling after surgery and cited the early detection as a key factor in his treatment.
Frankel explained that doctors initially did not think he needed an ultrasound, but he advocated for himself, insisting on further testing that led to the early diagnosis before the cancer could progress. He emphasized that he “refused to ‘wait and see’” and proactively pursued care, a decision he said likely saved his life.
While the surgery to remove the cancer went well, Frankel noted that pathology results revealed a more aggressive cell type, meaning he will need continued monitoring as he recovers. He expressed gratitude for his health care access — acknowledging that not everyone has the same resources or opportunities to push for early diagnosis and care.
Frankel also thanked Sidibe for her support throughout the ordeal, writing that she “carried our family through all of this — holding everything down while I handled appointments, surgery, and recovery.”
Thyroid cancer, particularly papillary type, often has a strong prognosis when caught early, and many patients go on to live long, healthy lives after treatment, though monitoring may continue for years.
The couple, who welcomed their twins in April 2024, are now focused on Frankel’s recovery and family life amid this unexpected health challenge.
