Teddi Mellencamp, 44, the former “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star, is battling stage four cancer but has told her father, rock‑songwriter John Mellencamp, that she will remain in Los Angeles rather than move back to Indiana.
Father’s plea and daughter’s response
During a recent appearance on “The Today Show,” John Mellencamp said, “Move back to Indiana, bring the kids and just come back and live in Indiana,” but Teddi replied, “I’m not going to Indiana.”
Why Los Angeles feels like home
Teddi explained that her three children attend school in Los Angeles and that her estranged husband Edwin similarly lives there, adding, “Between him saying that, and I’m suffering, I’m like, you’re really putting me through the wringer.” She said a call from her publicist left her feeling “depressed.”
Health journey
She first disclosed a stage 2 melanoma diagnosis in March 2022. By April 2025 the cancer had progressed to stage IV, spreading to her brain and lungs. She underwent brain surgery that removed several tumors, during which doctors discovered additional lesions. Follow‑up scans later showed the tumors shrinking.
Immunotherapy “makes me feel like hell for about four days,” she told Fox News Digital, and she has struggled with speech clarity after treatment. She noted that her hands, which once shook so badly she could not write, have steadied.
The Masked Singer boost
Revealed as “Calla Lily” on The Masked Singer, Teddi said the experience was “so exciting” for her kids and gave her an emotional lift. She observed that watching herself on the show reminded her of the improvement in her hand tremors and overall mood.
Future relocation thoughts
While she has not ruled out moving, Teddi said she would consider her sister’s home in Hilton Head, South Carolina, rather than Indiana, noting she “does not like cold weather.”
Family burial plans
John Mellencamp has urged his daughter to finalize her will and consider the family mausoleum. Teddi said she “agreed to be in the mausoleum,” joking about a “Hot girls never die” epitaph.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Teddi Mellencamp refuse to move to Indiana?
She says her children’s schooling and her estranged husband’s residence are in Los Angeles, and she feels the move would add emotional strain during her treatment.
What is the current status of her cancer?
She is battling stage four cancer that has spread to her brain and lungs. After brain surgery, recent scans indicated the tumors are decreasing in size, though she continues to experience side effects from immunotherapy.
How has appearing on “The Masked Singer” impacted her recovery?
She credits the show with providing emotional uplift for her and her children, and she noticed an improvement in hand tremors and overall mood after the performance.
What do you think about balancing personal health decisions with family expectations?
