Longtime fans of TLC’s “Unexpected” will remember Max Schenzel, a teen dad who appeared in Seasons 2 and 3. Max was introduced as the boyfriend of Chloe Mendoza and the father of her unborn child. Viewers got a front-row seat for Max’s tumultuous relationship with his girlfriend’s parents, Jessica and Nate.
Chloe’s mother, Jessica, already had issues with Max, but things escalated when she found out Max had struggled with Fentanyl and Xanax use. This strained Chloe and Max’s relationship and affected his ability to spend time with their daughter, Ava.
Now, at 26, Max appears to be working toward a healthier path, despite setbacks along the way, including an arrest for theft and possession of Fentanyl in July 2025. As he navigates a new chapter, he’s also facing a deeply personal challenge involving his father’s health.
Still, Max is finding ways to stay grounded and build new strength during this difficult time. Read on to see the powerful message the “Unexpected” star shared with fans.
‘Unexpected’ Star Max Schenzel’s Dad Has Been Diagnosed With Stage 4 Brain Cancer
Max Schenzel recently took to social media to share with fans about his father’s recent health battle. The “Unexpected” star posted a carousel of photos featuring himself and his father, Todd Schenzel. He captioned his post, “Life hit me harder than it ever has.”
The “Unexpected” star continued, “Hearing my dad was diagnosed with stage 4 glioblastoma changed everything overnight. It’s been the toughest thing I’ve ever had to face… mentally, emotionally, all of it. But in the middle of all that pain, I made a choice — I’m not folding.”
Max Schenzel Shares How He’s Staying Strong Amid His Dad’s Cancer Diagnosis
Max went on to share how he’s holding up and staying positive during this difficult time, writing, “I’m still showing up. Still hitting the gym. Still going to church. pushing my mind and body when it would be easier to break. Because strength isn’t just built on good days… it’s forged in moments like this.”
The “Unexpected” star also opened up about spending time with his dad and slowing down to enjoy each moment he has with him, writing, “We took a last-minute trip to Sedona, and honestly, it meant everything. Slowing down, being present, laughing, talking… I’m closer to my dad now than I’ve ever been. And that’s something I’ll carry with me forever.”
He added, “This season is heavy… but it’s also teaching me what really matters — time, love, and being there for the people who matter most.”
He ended his powerful message by sharing, “No matter what you’re going through… don’t quit. Show up anyway.”
Fans Rally Around Max Schenzel With Messages of Support
After Max posted his touching message to social media, fans quickly flooded the “Unexpected” star’s comment section.
One fan wrote, “Ugh, I can’t imagine… prayers to you and your family.”
Another added, “Sending you and your family so much love and prayer.”
A third fan wrote, “Prayers to you and your family. Looks like you’re doing it right. Keep going!”
As Max navigates this difficult season, the outpouring of support shows just how many people are rooting for him. It also echoes his own message to keep showing up, no matter what.
It’s really admirable how he’s being so open about this. Family support is so important during times like these.