Maria Menounos: Surviving Cancer & Embracing Motherhood | News

04 May, 2025

Could you imagine facing the fight of your life, not just physically but emotionally and mentally, all while welcoming a new life into the world? For Maria Menounos, 2023 was a year of profound challenges and triumphs, as she courageously navigated a stage 2 pancreatic cancer diagnosis and simultaneously embraced the joys of motherhood.

The multi-talented personality, known for her work as a television host, actress, podcaster, and correspondent, has candidly shared her journey, offering a beacon of hope and resilience to those facing similar battles. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of family, mindset, and unwavering determination.

Menounos, a familiar face on television screens for years, first began feeling unwell during the summer of 2023. The initial symptoms led to a diagnosis in January of the same year stage 2 pancreatic cancer. Facing such a diagnosis would be a monumental challenge for anyone, yet Menounos met it with a remarkable blend of vulnerability and fortitude. She underwent treatment, leaning on the support of her family and consciously adjusting her perspective to navigate the difficult road ahead. Her openness about her experience has provided inspiration and support to countless people dealing with health challenges of their own.

Adding a layer of joy to her journey, Menounos and her husband, producer Keven Undergaro, welcomed their first child, a daughter named Athena, through surrogacy in June 2023. This joyous occasion provided a profound counterpoint to the challenges she was confronting, illustrating the multifaceted nature of life and the capacity for both struggle and celebration to coexist.

Category	Details
Full Name	Maria Menounos
Date of Birth	June 8, 1978
Birthplace	Medford, Massachusetts, USA
Occupation	Television Host, Actress, Podcaster, Entrepreneur
Known For	Hosting "Extra," "Access Hollywood," and "Conversations with Maria Menounos" podcast.
Marital Status	Married to Keven Undergaro
Children	1 Daughter, Athena
Education	Emerson College
Notable Achievements	Emmy Award Winner, Philanthropist (Take Action Hollywood, Cosmo Girl Cup)
Net Worth	$5 Million (approx.)
Cancer Diagnosis	Stage 2 Pancreatic Cancer (Recovering)
Social Media	Instagram
Reference Website	Wikipedia

The "Heal Squad" podcast host, as she is known, has been transparent in sharing her experiences, including the emotional toll of telling her best friend about her diagnosis. This level of honesty has resonated deeply with her audience, forging a connection built on empathy and shared experience.

Beyond the health challenges, Menounos has also embraced the joys of motherhood. She frequently shares photos and stories of her daughter Athena, highlighting the wonder and love she feels as she watches her child grow. The arrival of Athena has undoubtedly brought immense joy to her and Undergaro.

Menounos' career has been marked by versatility and success. She has built a solid foundation in the entertainment industry, appearing in films, hosting television shows, and creating a successful podcast. Her entrepreneurial spirit has also led her to establish the charity "Take Action Hollywood" and the "Cosmo Girl Cup," demonstrating her commitment to giving back to the community.

The actress, who is currently 46 years old, faced a prior health scare in 2017, when she was diagnosed with a benign brain tumor. This experience undoubtedly prepared her in a way for her recent challenges, as she had already navigated the complexities of a serious medical condition. Her openness about both diagnoses has empowered others to take control of their health and seek early detection.

Menounos's career has spanned various facets of the entertainment world, including hosting prominent shows such as "Extra" and "Access Hollywood." Her interviewing skills have made her a favorite among celebrities and viewers alike, and her "Conversations with Maria Menounos" podcast allows her to delve deeper into various topics. Her ability to connect with her audience and bring a sense of warmth and authenticity to every interview has always been her strength.

Menounos' presence in the media extends beyond entertainment. She actively supports her Greek heritage and the Greek diaspora in the United States. She has been involved with the Hellenic Olympic Committee, demonstrating her commitment to her roots.

Menounos' partnership with Keven Undergaro, which began in 1998, has been a significant aspect of her personal life. They got engaged on the Howard Stern Show in 2016 and married on New Year's Eve in 2017 in Times Square, the ceremony was officiated by Steve Harvey and was broadcast live on Fox. Undergaro has been a source of strength and support for Menounos.

Menounos journey is a testament to her resilience and unwavering spirit. From battling pancreatic cancer to becoming a mother, she continues to inspire and empower others with her openness and positive outlook. Her story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to find joy, hope, and strength.

Maria Menounoss journey with pancreatic cancer began in January, with the tumor being removed the following month. This swift action underscores the significance of early detection and prompt medical care. The actress's willingness to speak openly about her diagnosis and treatment has increased awareness about pancreatic cancer. Her experience highlights the need for regular check-ups and the importance of seeking medical advice at the first sign of unusual symptoms.

The birth of Athena, via surrogacy in June 2023, brought a new chapter of joy into Maria and Kevens lives. The couple's journey to parenthood was documented by Menounos, further strengthening her connection with her fans. Her public sharing of Athena's milestones, has provided many followers with a sense of hope and happiness.

Menounos's approach to motherhood has been as heartfelt and open as her approach to her health challenges. She often shares photos and stories about her daughter, Athena, depicting the everyday joys and challenges of parenthood. Her emphasis on cherishing every moment demonstrates her deep affection and the value she places on family.

Menounos' has built a successful career on a variety of platforms. She earned her success from wrestling, entourage, paranormal movies & fantastic four. Her ability to seamlessly transition between roles, from television host to podcaster to actress, illustrates her versatility and adaptability in an ever-changing media landscape.

Menounos's continued involvement in philanthropic endeavors, especially through "Take Action Hollywood" and the "Cosmo Girl Cup," demonstrates her commitment to giving back. This philanthropic work extends beyond her immediate circle, reflecting her desire to impact the wider community. Her dedication to these causes underscores her values and dedication to making a positive difference.

Maria Menounos' ability to embrace her heritage and connect with her roots highlights the importance of family and cultural identity. Her actions in supporting the Hellenic Olympic Committee and Greek diaspora illustrate her strong ties to her Greek background. Her dedication to her cultural heritage serves as a source of pride and a means of remaining connected to her roots.

Maria Menounos' journey through challenges and victories continues to influence and motivate many. Her honesty, her strong family relationships, and her dedication to her work and her community have solidified her status as a prominent and inspirational figure in the world of entertainment and beyond. Her experiences offer hope and encouragement to anyone facing obstacles.

Menounos is presently focused on her recovery, the joy of motherhood, and her continuing work in the entertainment industry. Her story provides a message of resilience and empowerment to her followers. Her future endeavors will undoubtedly continue to inspire and impact the lives of many, emphasizing the value of fortitude, family, and a positive attitude in the face of life's challenges.

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