«Cougar Town» star Busy Philipps diagnosed with a rare brain tumor
«I’m grateful to be alive»
American actress Busy Philipps, best known for the series «Cougar Town» and «Dawson’s Creek», has spoken publicly for the first time about her serious health issues. At the age of 46, she was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor that she had not even known was there. According to the actress, the past six months have been the «strangest» of her life.
The unusual mass was discovered by chance during a whole-body MRI scan that Philipps decided to undergo in February 2026. She had no obvious symptoms at the time. Her doctor had previously seen no need for such an examination, but Busy chose to trust her instincts — and with good reason.
The scan revealed a mass in the right frontal lobe of her brain. Further tests confirmed that it was a grade 2 oligodendroglioma — a rare type of tumor that typically grows slowly. It measured approximately 2.6 centimeters.
In March, the actress underwent a five-hour operation, during which doctors successfully removed the entire tumor. As a result, Philipps currently does not require chemotherapy or radiation therapy. However, she will need regular follow-up examinations to monitor her health.
Her ordeal did not end there. Following the initial procedure, an infection developed around the surgical wound, requiring a second operation. The recovery process was difficult, but the actress was eventually able to return to work.
Reflecting on what she had been through, Philipps admitted that she now cherishes life more than ever. She also stressed the importance of listening to one’s body and not ignoring warning signs.
As it turned out, her life-changing decision to undergo the scan was connected to a personal tragedy. Shortly before the examination, her colleague and longtime friend, «Dawson’s Creek» star James Van Der Beek, passed away after bravely battling cancer. His death prompted Busy to set aside her doubts and make sure she did not cancel her scheduled appointment at the clinic.
Photo: Instagram @busyphilipps
