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Moshe Kasher Opens Up About Tonsil Cancer Diagnosis and Surgery

June 21, 2026
Moshe Kasher Opens Up About Tonsil Cancer Diagnosis and Surgery
Moshe Kasher Opens Up About Tonsil Cancer Diagnosis and Surgery

Comedian and writer Moshe Kasher has shared details of his recent cancer diagnosis and treatment in an emotional Instagram post published Sunday, June 21.

The 46-year-old, who is married to actress Natasha Leggero, discovered a bump on his tonsil three months earlier while in Savannah working as a producer on the Judd Apatow and Glen Powell film "The Comeback King." Medical testing revealed the growth to be cancerous.

Two days before his post, Kasher underwent surgery at Cedars Sinai to remove the tumor. He described the five-hour procedure in vivid detail, noting that a surgical robot was used during the operation. The process left him with significant swelling and bruising, along with a notable scar on his neck.

"This has been the most terrifying and consciousness consuming experience of my life," Kasher wrote, adding that he managed to continue working on the film throughout the ordeal while dealing with the diagnosis and its emotional toll.

Despite the challenging circumstances, Kasher expressed gratitude for the medical team at Cedars Sinai and shared optimistic news about his prognosis. The cancer he was diagnosed with carries a cure rate in the 95 percent range. He will learn next week whether radiation treatment will be necessary going forward.

Kasher used his platform to raise awareness about HPV-positive tonsil cancer, which he noted has become increasingly common in men under 55. He encouraged people to get vaccinated and undergo screening, emphasizing the importance of prevention.

"The bad news is HPV positive tonsil cancer is an epidemic in men under 55. Get checked and vaccinate your damn kids!" he wrote.

In his post, Kasher praised his wife Leggero and friends for their support, describing waking from surgery overwhelmed with gratitude. He has not yet announced when he plans to return to performing stand-up comedy, focusing instead on recovery during what he expects will be a challenging summer ahead.

"I can't wait to go back to work. but for now – I breathe. I walk. I eat. I survive. I live," he concluded.

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