Dolph Lundgren Reveals He Considered 'Legal Suicide' Amid Cancer Battle

Action actor Dolph Lundgren, known as Ivan Drago in the film Rocky IV, has opened up about the dark side of his battle with cancer. In his latest memoir, Fights Worth Fighting: Finding Strength In Struggle, he admitted he once considered legally ending his life amid despair over the disease.

The 68-year-old was first diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2015, but the diagnosis turned out to be wrong. In 2020, the cancer had spread and doctors estimated he did not have long to live. The turning point came in 2022, when doctors found he actually had lung cancer. After undergoing a series of treatments, Lundgren announced in 2024 that he was cancer-free.

In his memoir, Lundgren recounted that he had thought about medically assisted suicide in a country like Switzerland, which permits the practice for terminally ill patients. He had even spoken with his brother, Johan, who was willing to help him because his condition at the time was very weak. "I don't know what condition I'll be in later, it could be very bad and I won't be able to do it myself," he wrote. However, the plan never materialized after he met Dr. Alexandra Drakaki, whom he credits with saving his life.

Lundgren also revealed that he underwent what is called survivorship therapy to address the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) he experienced. "It feels like a soldier coming back from war, because you've faced death," he told Entertainment Weekly. In therapy, he learned that life is full of uncertainty, and his cancer experience made him appreciate every moment more.

"I hope I can inspire people who have their own problems—not just cancer—to stay positive and keep fighting."

— Dolph Lundgren

Lundgren's story highlights the importance of mental health for cancer survivors. In Indonesia, cancer remains one of the leading causes of death, and many patients struggle not only against the physical disease but also psychological pressure. Psychological support and access to palliative care remain challenges. Lundgren's experience can serve as a mirror that hope often comes from unexpected places, such as the right diagnosis and the right therapy.

Going forward, Lundgren's story is expected to spark a broader discussion about the importance of early detection, diagnostic accuracy, and mental support for cancer patients. The question is, are health systems in various countries, including Indonesia, ready enough to handle the psychological dimension of this deadly disease?