Gabourey Sidibe’s Husband Shares Thyroid Cancer Diagnosis After Surgery

Melissa CopeltonSat, February 21, 2026 at 10:15 PM UTC

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(John Nacion/Variety via Getty Images)

Gabourey Sidibe’s husband, Brandon Frankel, shared a personal and important message via social media concerning his health.

“Things I never thought I’d have to post: I was diagnosed with Stage I Papillary Thyroid cancer. I found it very early because I pushed for an ultrasound my doctor didn’t think I needed,” Frankel began on Instagram on Friday, February 20.

He went on to list the various ways he advocated for himself, writing, “I refused to 'wait and see.’ I refused to come back in 6–9 months. I made the calls. I leveraged connections. I chased cancellations. I made a LOT of noise. It worked.”

Frankel confirmed that his surgery “went well” and that he’s “okay for now,” before discussing the importance of early detection.

“Pathology showed a more aggressive cell type (tall cell), so there’s more monitoring ahead. But we caught it early. I’m extremely proactive, so I can be around for my family,” he explained. “Here’s the uncomfortable truth: Early detection didn’t just possibly save my life. Access and advocating for myself did.”

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Frankel highlighted that he had “insurance,” “time,” and “people who could help move things faster,” while “too many” people in his situation don’t.

The father of two also addressed the many flaws in America's healthcare system.

“Healthcare shouldn’t reward the loudest, the most connected, or the most financially secure. It shouldn’t require strategy, privilege, and stamina just to feel safe,” he reasoned. “My wife carried our family through all of this—holding everything down while I handled appointments, surgery, and recovery. I don’t know how anyone does this without that kind of love and support. I’m grateful. I’m lucky. But luck and means shouldn’t be a healthcare plan. The system is broken. Healthcare should be a basic human right. PLEASE advocate for yourself, and be proactive!”

Sidibe, a longtime actress, best known for her roles in Precious and Empire, and Frankel tied the knot in 2021. In 2024, the loving couple welcomed twins Cooper and Maya.

This story was originally published by Parade on Feb 21, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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Source: “AOL Entertainment”