Swedish actor Dolph Lundgren, known for his iconic role as Ivan Drago in the Rocky franchise, recently appeared on Live with Kelly and Mark to discuss his new memoir, Fights Worth Fighting: Finding Strength in Struggle. During the candid interview, Lundgren reflected on his nearly decade-long battle with cancer, revealing that he once considered ending his life. The actor, 68, shared deeply personal insights from his book, which was released on September 22, 2026, and also touched on lighter moments from his Hollywood career.
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In his memoir, Lundgren writes about the physical and mental torment he experienced after his 2015 cancer diagnosis. “When I was deep into the cancer treatments and thinking about the possibility of killing myself, my brother, Johan, was going to help me, because I didn’t know what kind of condition I might be in once I made that decision,” he reveals. This raw admission underscores the severity of his struggle and the importance of support from loved ones. Lundgren has since provided health updates, noting that the past few years have been “tough,” but he remains resilient and focused on recovery.
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Beyond his health journey, Lundgren also addressed critics of his 39-year age-gap marriage, stating that he doesn’t care what people say about his relationship with his younger wife. He also admitted to feeling guilty for sending Sylvester Stallone to the hospital during the filming of Rocky IV, a role that defined his career. Before stepping into Drago’s shoes, Lundgren was pursuing a path in academics and engineering, a lesser-known fact that adds depth to his storied life.
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Lundgren’s appearance on Live with Kelly and Mark showcased his ability to move between deeply personal territory and lighter reflections on his Hollywood past. His memoir, Fights Worth Fighting, offers a comprehensive look at his resilience and the battles he has faced both on and off screen. As he continues to share his story, Lundgren remains a symbol of strength and vulnerability, inspiring
Shimanta Das 
