Elle Macpherson’s controversies: An extensive look at the supermodel’s tumultuous history amid backlash over her ‘holistic’ cancer treatment

Elle Macpherson's controversies: An extensive look at the supermodel's tumultuous history amid backlash over her 'holistic' cancer treatment

As I delve deeper into the fascinating tale of Elle Macpherson, I find myself both awestruck and slightly concerned, much like trying to balance on one foot while juggling a dozen green smoothies.


News outlets have been buzzing with discussions following Elle Macpherson’s revelation of her unique, and some say controversial, approach to treating cancer using holistic methods.

60-year-old supermodel stirred up controversy when she shared that she disregarded the counsel of 32 medical professionals by forgoing chemotherapy treatment seven years ago.

Yet, she hasn’t just faced this particular issue throughout her illustrious, decades-long career; there have been other contentious matters as well.

A glance at all the scandals that have marked Elle’s professional journey, including dating a discredited anti-vaccination advocate, issues with customers not receiving orders from her wellness company WelleCo, and a bitter vitamin dispute with a past business partner.

Holistic Cancer Treatment

In her autobiography entitled “Elle: Life, Lessons, and Learning to Trust Yourself,” it was disclosed that she received a breast cancer diagnosis about seven years prior.

The procedure revealed, and probably extracted, an intraductal carcinoma that was HER2 positive and responsive to estrogen.

32 medical professionals advised the renowned Australian figure to have a mastectomy, followed by radiation treatment, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy to minimize its recurrence.

Instead, following a meditative experience on a Miami beach, Elle opted against the prescribed medical treatment, instead choosing a more holistic approach to healing.

In February 2017, she traveled to a residence in Phoenix, Arizona, and remained there for approximately eight months. During this time, she received a health-focused cancer treatment as part of her wellness plan.

Elle Macpherson's controversies: An extensive look at the supermodel's tumultuous history amid backlash over her 'holistic' cancer treatment

A naturopathic doctor, a holistic dental practitioner, an osteopath, a chiropractor, and two therapists, who served as her primary guides, led her through this unusual journey.

This year, she parted ways with husband Jeffrey Soffer in June, which came four months after a contentious choice to disregard medical professionals’ counsel. Her actions elicited a range of responses from her sons Flynn (aged 26) and Cy (aged 21).

As a devoted follower, I wholeheartedly stood by my renowned mother during her battle with cancer, firmly convinced that chemotherapy would prove fatal. However, my eldest sibling harbored doubts.

In this scenario, I might rephrase it as follows: “As for Flynn, while he’s traditionally minded, he wasn’t at ease with my decision. He’s my son, after all, and no matter what, he stands by me and loves me, even when he disagrees with my choices.” This maintains the sentiment of the original statement while making it more conversational and in the first person perspective.

I, being an ardent fan of mine, can’t help but share this intriguing tidbit. You see, my ex, Arki Busson, the man who shared two beautiful sons with me before our parting ways in 2005, didn’t always see eye to eye with my approach. However, he penned a heartfelt letter expressing his immense pride in the courage I displayed.

As a lifestyle expert, I’m delighted to share that I’ve recently entered a period of remission, a stage where my body has successfully fought off the cancer cells. This is believed to be largely thanks to the initial lumpectomy procedure I underwent. In simpler terms, this surgical process removed the cancer from my breast while preserving most of the surrounding tissue. A truly remarkable feat of modern medicine!

Elle Macpherson's controversies: An extensive look at the supermodel's tumultuous history amid backlash over her 'holistic' cancer treatment

At the time of her memoir’s publication, she mentioned that she employed a compassionate, gut-guided, and comprehensive strategy in managing her cancer.

Refusing conventional medical treatments was the most challenging decision I’ve made in my life. However, defying my own intuition would have been an even greater challenge,” she expressed.

She also mentioned that she felt chemotherapy and surgery were overly aggressive, and some people considered her unconventional for it. However, she persisted with her decision despite these opinions.

60 Minutes Australia reported on Sunday that Elle stated she’s consistently chosen ‘natural remedies’, a decision considered ‘unusual’ or in line with the ‘unconventional path’ she’s taken throughout her life.

She explained, “I was faced with a difficult decision: either risking the loss of my life, or the loss of my breasts. To clarify, this wasn’t about vanity; it was a matter of survival.

My approach to treatment was organic, as it stemmed internally. I’ve been focusing on the body in a comprehensive manner, considering both its spiritual and physical health.

Previously famous for being dubbed “The Body” during her modeling prime, she later clarified that she undergoes routine medical examinations, which include scans and blood tests.

In my perspective, I share her confidence – I don’t foresee any signs, and I have nothing to suggest that it might. Absolutely none.

1) My body possesses an endless ability to recover, and I’m absolutely thriving… Fear, if unchecked, could lead to sickness. Therefore, I choose not to dwell on it.

Since the publication of her memoir, Elle has faced significant criticism and has been labeled as “strikingly reckless” by medical professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Her comments have sparked disagreement, as one physician criticized Elle for advocating ‘alternative’ healing methods, while numerous celebrities have joined the discussion. Among them are MAFS expert Mel Schilling, currently fighting colon cancer, and TV host Kerri-Anne Kennerley, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012.

Dr. Liz O’Riordan, a previous Consultant Oncoplastic Surgeon at Ipswich Hospital NHS Trust, expressed concerns about alternative cancer treatments during an appearance on ITV’s Lorraine. She suggested that Elle may not have fully grasped the potential consequences of her statements regarding these therapies.

She said: ‘I think it’s really hard to get my head around, we know that there is no evidence that alternative holistic treatments can cure cancer and it’s really hard when someone with her profile decides to do this.

My concern lies in the possibility that individuals might perceive her decision as an encouragement to forego conventional therapies such as chemotherapy. The issue arises when women opt for only alternative treatments instead of mainstream ones, as studies show that they are approximately six times more likely to pass away if they do so.

Typical cancer treatment revolves around surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Cancer Research UK indicates that certain patients opt for complementary therapies to enhance their feelings, mitigate treatment side effects, and boost their overall life quality.

Aromatherapy, acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage therapy, visualisation and yoga are among the most common examples, it said.

In some instances, individuals opt for alternative approaches such as taking shark cartilage pills and adhering to the Gerson Therapy regimen. This method entails consuming an organic vegetarian diet and administering up to five coffee enema sessions daily, rather than conventional medical treatments.

There is no scientific or medical evidence that these therapies can cure cancer.

According to Cancer Research UK, some supplements could potentially be risky, causing adverse effects or interfering with ongoing medical care and treatments.

Staging Paparazzi Photos

In January, she found herself in an awkward blunder, several months prior to the publication of her memoir. This occurred when she visited Australia after a gap of four years to commemorate the 10th anniversary of her brand, WelleCo.

Upon her arrival in Sydney, the supermodel was greeted by photographers as she made her way towards the Crown Sydney hotel.

In a surprising encounter, reality TV figure Harrison Boon stumbled upon Elle outside a bustling location, where paparazzi were thronging around her. Instead of avoiding the attention, Elle playfully cooperated with the photographers multiple times, aiming to get the ideal shot.

Elle Macpherson's controversies: An extensive look at the supermodel's tumultuous history amid backlash over her 'holistic' cancer treatment
Elle Macpherson's controversies: An extensive look at the supermodel's tumultuous history amid backlash over her 'holistic' cancer treatment

The reality star posted a video of Elle in action to his Instagram Stories, revealing she and new boyfriend, American musician Doyle Bramhall, repeated their walk into the venue several times. 

Harrison mentioned in the caption that they performed this awkward walking stunt approximately 250 times, without any embellishment.

She was seen grinning at the cameras while walking hand-in-hand with Doyle, entering Crown Sydney.

In the video by Harrison, she can be noticed moving around and coming back before getting closer to the photographers again for another encounter.

Airport Rage

In November 2023, Elle got frustrated with the customs officers at Dallas-Fort Worth Airport in the United States due to extended waiting time.

The entrepreneur snapped at a staff member when she was waved through customs only to be called back again.

As a die-hard admirer, let me confess, I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of frustration mirroring that of the WelleCo founder, as we both were compelled to endure the wait in the bustling customs line, just like everyone else.

Due to the queue being longer than expected, Elle expressed her annoyance to security and asked for clarification on the delay.

‘Why did you just say I could go through and then tell me I had to come back?’ Elle snapped.

She continued: ‘You just let five people through. I was before them and now I’m at the back again.’

The tall beauty was carrying a $5,300 leopard print Christian Dior tote bag and garbed in a luxe Texan-style ensemble as she went on her tirade. 

Cashing In On The Supplement Craze

In a more casual tone, we could say: She is a co-founder and the creative head at WelleCo, a firm that has been offering ‘alkaline balance’ dietary supplements up until the year 2020.

She asserted that the body functions best with a slightly alkaline pH in the blood, and she often carried a urine testing kit in her bag for quick checks of her urine whenever necessary.

Many scientists frequently criticize the trend of ‘eating alkaline’, dismissing it as baseless and rooted in poor scientific evidence.

Elle Macpherson's controversies: An extensive look at the supermodel's tumultuous history amid backlash over her 'holistic' cancer treatment

According to Cancer Research UK, it’s important to understand that the pH level of our blood is precisely maintained by the kidneys and can’t be altered significantly within a short period through dietary changes.

All that can be changed is the acidity of your urine.

In February 2020, Elle introduced her line of Super Booster dietary supplements, marketed as aiding sexual desire.

While Elle told her Instagram followers the Super Booster ‘really works’, the product had a caveat. 

If your symptoms continue, reach out to your healthcare provider. However, supplements might help you only when your regular diet lacks sufficient nutrients.

10 years ago, in January, WelleCo commemorated its milestone by having a bohemian-style lunch hosted by Elle magazine. The event offered exclusively vegetarian meals and non-alcoholic beverages to honor the special occasion.

As a die-hard fan, I’d be thrilled to extend invitations to my cherished friends, especially the fabulous Pip Edwards, for an exclusive dinner soiree at the enchanting Shell House Sydney. My wish is that each guest savors the delight of savoring my most beloved dishes during this intimate gathering.

Her menu offering for vegetarians featured seaweed called wakame, slices of cucumber accompanied by a touch of horseradish, and slices of whole wheat sourdough that had been generously buttered as a light bite.

Elle Macpherson's controversies: An extensive look at the supermodel's tumultuous history amid backlash over her 'holistic' cancer treatment

Next, there were three shared courses served among the guests, where the main course consisted of leeks combined with sour cream and feta, accompanied by cucumbers and red pimento peppers.

The main dish consisted of beetroot roasted over coal, grilled oyster mushrooms, and eggplant, served alongside a red Salanova salad and Brussels sprouts as accompaniments.

The guest concluded their meal with a refreshing grapefruit shave ice (granita) and creamy oat milk sorbet, accompanied by hazelnuts, seasonal berries, and rich dark chocolate for a delightful dessert.

Mocktails were distributed throughout the bar, adhering to Elle’s firm policy of no alcohol, as guests enjoyed ‘therapeutic sound experiences’.

Elle titled a picture on Instagram she posted of bowls under a microphone with the phrase, ‘Offering healing sounds for inner tranquility, charm, and health.’

WelleCo Customers Up In Arms 

In September 2023, Elle faced a barrage of questions from customers of her wellness brand, WelleCo, as they openly called for explanations regarding delayed or lost orders.

Previously featured as the cover model for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, she faced criticism after posting a selfie on her company’s Instagram account, a move that didn’t sit well with some customers who were yet to receive their orders.

Many people headed to the comments section, asserting that they hadn’t received orders they placed as far back as a month ago, and were finding it difficult to get any response from customer service.

Elle Macpherson's controversies: An extensive look at the supermodel's tumultuous history amid backlash over her 'holistic' cancer treatment

“One person asked why you can post on Instagram, but haven’t responded to orders that are still pending since September 1st.

I’ve found myself in a bit of a pickle. I’ve been billed for my subscription, yet I haven’t received the product I was expecting. Could you possibly help me out by responding to my email or direct message?

“Hello, I’ve been attempting to receive my order, but neither my email nor the customer service have responded.” A third individual mentioned this as well.

It was proposed that Elle and WelleCo might want to reduce their ad campaigns temporarily, until they have a sufficient stock available.

Instead of saying “They added:”, it could be rephrased as follows:

Elle Macpherson's controversies: An extensive look at the supermodel's tumultuous history amid backlash over her 'holistic' cancer treatment

In response to the matter at hand, WelleCo CEO, Leighton Richards, issued a message aimed at reassuring their clientele about the situation.

This year, the brand has seen extraordinary expansion, welcoming a staggering 560% more new customers. As you might expect, this growth has brought about certain difficulties.

‘We base our recipes on top-tier, luxury components. Finding these superior ingredients can take some time, sometimes resulting in delays of several months to meet demand.’

He went on to say: ‘Despite our efforts to ensure a well-stocked supply, unfortunately, we lacked the necessary measures to manage this sudden surge in expansion.’

Afterward, Leighton added that the company expanded their warehouse, installed fresh systems, and multiplied their workforce by three to manage the influx of orders effectively.

He mentioned that, just like any journey towards wellness, this is a step-by-step process. However, since 2014, we’ve been providing Elixirs, which gives us a robust base to further develop and improve our offerings.

‘We hope you’ll see that we are the real deal and our intentions are as good as our ingredients.’

Ugly Vitamin War

The idea for WelleCo took root in a garage located in Peppermint Grove, Perth, Australia, when it was nurtured by Elle’s friend Andrea Horwood.

In my role as a lifestyle guide, I granted Elle a 50% stake in the ‘powdered green goods’ venture, with the expectation that her influence would help boost its popularity and success.

The business prospered, and WelleCo went on to become worth about $30million. 

Elle Macpherson's controversies: An extensive look at the supermodel's tumultuous history amid backlash over her 'holistic' cancer treatment

It came to light in 2019 that Andrea had filed a lawsuit against Rolico, a privately-held firm of Elle’s, based in the tax-haven islands of the British Virgin Islands.

Andrea stated that Elle and her financial backers reportedly broke their agreement permitting Elle to acquire additional shares in the company, subsequently firing her, and denying her access to her own workspace.

In the West Australian Supreme Court’s recommendation, the parties were encouraged to engage in mediation. They were informed that there were only two possible outcomes: either the company would be liquidated, or Andrea’s shares in the company could be bought.

Romance With Disgraced Anti-Vaxxer Doctor

In February 2017, Elle chose a more holistic approach for her cancer treatment. At that time, she was married to Jeffrey, but they parted ways four years later in June of the same year.

Instead of dating him, let me rephrase it this way: After meeting him at the ‘Doctors Who Rock’ awards event in Florida in November 2017, she subsequently began a relationship with Andrew Wakefield, who had previously been disgraced as a doctor and is known for advocating against vaccines.

It’s thought that she parted ways with Andrew, who became an outcast due to his questionable research connecting the MMR vaccine and autism in 2020.

Elle Macpherson's controversies: An extensive look at the supermodel's tumultuous history amid backlash over her 'holistic' cancer treatment

She openly supported her partner during the COVID-19 crisis, expressing that the pandemic represented an opportune time to advocate for the anti-vaccination movement, which she deemed as divine timing.

In a video recorded by the Mail in 2020, he publicly referred to her as his partner prior to a U.S. showing of his anti-vaccination documentary.

In the heart of North Carolina, I stood before you all, awestruck as I shared my thoughts about a remarkable film created amidst the pandemic. It’s more than just a movie; it’s a testament to divine timing. Watching it now, during these tumultuous times, it resonates powerfully, striking a chord that echoes our current reality. It’s as if the universe aligned, crafting this film at exactly the right moment for us to find solace and understanding in its pertinence and relevance.

Additionally, we find ourselves at a remarkable moment when discussions about vaccinations and mandates are widespread.

For the first time, the entrepreneur openly acknowledged and supported their partner’s activism by publicly acknowledging their relationship.

In 2010, Andrew, a doctor who hails from Berkshire, was removed from the list of licensed practitioners due to the revelation that his study suggesting a connection between MMR vaccines and autism was found to be a fabricated hoax.

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2024-09-14 04:52

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