Busy Philipps Reveals Grade 2 Brain Tumor, Surgery Complete

Busy Philipps revealed in February 2026 she was diagnosed with a rare grade 2 oligodendroglioma, a slow-growing malignant brain tumor, following a Prenuvo full-body scan she initially considered canceling after her friend James Van Der Beek's death. The tumor measured about 2.6 centimeters and was removed in a five-hour operation on March 2. Doctors said it has the best prognosis among malignant gliomas when detected early. Her recovery was complicated by a staphylococcus infection at the incision, requiring a second surgery, but she has since recuperated. She will undergo ongoing surveillance rather than chemotherapy or radiation and has spoken about telling her daughters Birdie and Cricket and the emotional impact, including continuing with the scan despite reservations. She remains focused on regular scans as she prepares to film the CBS drama Cupertino.