Teddi Mellencamp, a former star of "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," has opened up about a sobering conversation with her father, the renowned musician John Mellencamp, regarding her burial plans as she battles stage IV cancer. During an episode of her podcast "Two Ts in a Pod" on April 8, 2025, Teddi, 43, recounted how her father called her 11 times in a row to discuss the family mausoleum, highlighting the seriousness of her health situation.
"Yesterday my dad calls 11 times in a row. Finally, I answer, I’m like, ‘I’m in the bath. Let me live a little,’" she shared with co-host Tamra Judge. John Mellencamp, 73, expressed his desire to ensure that Teddi would be laid to rest in their family mausoleum located in Indiana. Teddi, who shares three children—Slate, 12, Cruz, 10, and Dove, 5—with her estranged husband Edwin Arroyave, was quick to inquire whether there would be space for her kids as well.
"He’s like, ‘Well, there’s going to be the top five, and then we’re gonna have little areas around it, and then that’s where everyone’s going to get buried,’" Teddi recalled. The conversation took a lighter turn when she joked about having "hot girls never die" engraved on her tombstone, a quip that brought laughter to the podcast.
Teddi’s candidness about her health journey has resonated with many, especially since she announced her cancer diagnosis in February 2025. Initially diagnosed with melanoma in 2022, she later revealed that doctors found multiple tumors on her brain that month, which led to her undergoing surgery. However, her health has continued to decline, with the cancer metastasizing to her lungs and brain.
In an Instagram post on March 6, 2025, Teddi shared that she had three tumors in her brain and two in her lungs, all a result of her melanoma. "The doctors are hopeful that immunotherapy will effectively treat them," she stated, remaining optimistic despite the challenges she faces. On April 2, she announced that four additional tumors were discovered in her brain, intensifying her battle against the disease.
Despite the gravity of her situation, Teddi has expressed gratitude for the support she has received from fans and loved ones. In an emotional video shared on Instagram, she thanked her followers for their kind messages, acknowledging that her journey has been filled with both strength and moments of sadness. "Some days I feel really, really strong and some days I feel really, really sad and alone. And I think that’s a normal part of what any of us are going through, and that’s okay," she said.
Her former "Real Housewives" co-star Kyle Richards has also spoken about Teddi's resilience during this difficult time. "She has some rough days right now going through radiation and the immunotherapy, but, you know, you know Teddi. She is a really strong girl and I do believe she’s going to come out the other side of this, so lots of prayers and positive vibes for her," Richards stated.
Teddi's story is not an isolated one in the world of celebrities facing cancer. Colin Egglesfield, known for his role in "All My Children," announced in January 2025 that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer. He later shared that he was cancer-free in February following successful surgery and treatment. Similarly, Gerry Turner, the former star of "The Golden Bachelor," revealed in December 2024 that he had been diagnosed with Waldenström's macroglobulinemia, a type of bone cancer, although he acknowledged there was no cure.
As Teddi continues her fight against cancer, she remains focused on her family and her future goals. "I’m fighting for my life, but also for my family’s life and all the people I love," she emphasized in a recent interview. This determination to survive and thrive is echoed in her light-hearted approach to discussing her burial plans, reflecting her strength and resilience.
As she navigates this challenging chapter, Teddi Mellencamp's story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of family, humor, and hope in the face of adversity. Her journey, marked by both laughter and tears, resonates deeply with many, inspiring others to cherish their loved ones and face life’s challenges with courage and grace.
