“Marlyne Barrett’s Health Takes a Turn: Chicago Med Star in Ongoing Cancer Battle — Fans Urged to Pray for Her Recovery”
We all know and love Marlyne Barrett as the strong, compassionate, and unshakable Maggie Lockwood on Chicago Med. Since the very beginning of the series, she’s been the heart of the Gaffney Chicago Medical Center, leading some of the most powerful and emotional storylines on the show. But now, in a heartbreaking twist, the actress is facing a life-or-death battle in real life — and it’s one she’s been fighting largely in silence.
Barrett, 50, revealed in a deeply personal interview with People Magazine that she has been diagnosed with ovarian and uterine cancer. Her diagnosis came in July, but she chose to keep it private at first, focusing on her family, treatment, and personal strength.
“I’m an extremely private person,” Barrett admitted, “but I felt a responsibility to tell my story. When my character went through breast cancer, I had a sea of people reach out to me through social media. They brought me courage, and so I felt a sense of inevitability to meet their hearts where they met me.”
Since beginning chemotherapy, fans have noticed changes in Barrett’s appearance — particularly significant weight loss between Seasons 7 and 8. What many didn’t realize, however, is that Barrett had quietly shaved her head. The reason it remained unnoticed? She has always worn a wig to portray Maggie, even before her diagnosis.
Despite the grueling treatments, Barrett has continued to film Chicago Med, describing her work as a welcome distraction.
“Work brings me a lot of joy right now,” she said. “It brings me a lot of reprieve to think about something other than, ‘When is my next chemo shift?’ and ‘How am I going to hug my children?’”
Barrett, who shares two young children with her husband Gavin, now faces increasing health complications, according to close sources. While she remains determined and hopeful, there is growing concern about the progression of her illness. As of this update, her condition is not improving as hoped, and her team and family are asking for continued love and support.
The Chicago Med cast and crew have been a pillar of strength for Barrett. Filming schedules have been adjusted to ensure she has the time and space she needs. Still, this is a battle she’s fighting every single day — physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
As fans, now is the time to come together for one of our own. Marlyne Barrett gave us strength through her portrayal of Maggie, and now she needs that strength returned.
Please keep Marlyne, her husband Gavin, and their children in your thoughts and prayers. Share her story, send her love, and let her know she’s not fighting alone.
