NRL fans and commentators are extending their heartfelt support to Darryl Brohman after the rugby league icon revealed on Thursday that he has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The 69-year-old, who previously overcame prostate cancer in 2010, shared that he will undergo chemotherapy, with a fairly positive outlook.
“I have been a bit crook for the last six weeks or so and I have been diagnosed with a non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma,” Brohman announced on 2GB radio. “It’s a form of cancer and I have started treatment today. I start chemo on Monday, and there’s about a 21-day period between the chemos and there are about six or seven that I’ve got to do.”
Despite the daunting news, Brohman remains optimistic. “It’s not great news but if there is any good news from a cancer perspective it’s probably on the lower scale, and everyone I speak to says it is very treatable – so I’m pretty positive that I’ll be alright.”
Understanding Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, a crucial part of the immune system. The disease occurs when white blood cells, known as lymphocytes, begin to grow uncontrollably. Brohman described his symptoms, saying, “I was a bit crook in the stomach and I just felt a bit heavy and I just went and got tested, I have probably been tested about seven or eight times.”
Brohman expressed confidence in his treatment plan, stating, “I’m very positive that I’ll be all right, just a matter of going through all the yucky stuff you’ve got to go through. Chemo doesn’t sound like a lot of fun, but…I’m just gonna lay low for a few months, do what I’ve got to do, and hopefully come out completely healthy.”
Family and Community Support
Brohman praised his partner for her unwavering support during this challenging time. “She’s a different woman in the last few days, she’s very loving. She’s taken some time off work and has driven me around to various appointments. My daughter got married last Friday, so it sort of came at a bad time.”
His announcement has prompted an outpouring of support from the NRL community. Brohman, who played 114 first-grade games in the 1970s and 80s for the Penrith Panthers and Canterbury Bulldogs, is also renowned for his media career. After retiring in 1987, he transitioned into coaching and then commentary, becoming a beloved figure in the media landscape.
Messages of Support from the Rugby League World
2GB’s station manager Greg Byrnes conveyed the station’s solidarity, stating, “The entire Nine Radio family is sending its heartfelt support and best wishes to Darryl Brohman as he faces his upcoming health battle. We know ‘The Big Marn’ is up to the challenge, and we look forward to welcoming him back to the Continuous Call Team when he is fully recovered in 2026.”
Fans and fellow commentators took to social media to express their support. Wide World of Sports columnist ‘The Mole’ shared,
“Very sad news with league legend and all-round great guy Darryl Brohman revealing he is battling cancer. Good luck, ‘Big Marn’ – we are all with you!”
The Continuous Call Team’s official account echoed this sentiment, stating, “We’re all with you, Big Marn.”
A Legacy of Resilience and Community
Brohman’s contribution to rugby league extends beyond his playing days. As a host of the popular Footy Show on Channel 9 from 2010 to 2018, alongside notable figures like Paul Vautin and Erin Molan, he has become a staple in Australian sports media. His plans to return to the commentary box in 2026 reflect his enduring passion for the sport and his determination to overcome this latest challenge.
The rugby league community’s response to Brohman’s diagnosis underscores the deep connections and support networks within the sport. As Brohman embarks on his treatment journey, the collective hope is that he will emerge healthy and ready to continue his storied career.
