UPDATE: Chevy Chase has opened up about a life-threatening health scare that nearly took his life during a hospital stay in 2021. The actor shared his story at the inaugural “Rocky Day” event in Philadelphia, where he called Sylvester Stallone a “good old friend.”
In the upcoming documentary, “I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not,” set to premiere on January 1, 2024, on CNN, the 82-year-old actor revealed shocking details about his heart issues. “I have basically come back from the dead,” his daughter, Caley, said, underscoring the severity of his condition.
Chase’s wife, Jayni, recounted the harrowing moments when they rushed him to the emergency room after his heart stopped. “Something was wrong, and he couldn’t explain to me what was wrong. So, we go to the ER,” she stated in the documentary. The doctors diagnosed him with cardiomyopathy, a condition where heart muscles weaken, hindering blood flow.
After spending a staggering five weeks in the hospital, doctors advised the family to “prepare yourselves for the worst,” suggesting they might not get him back. “We don’t know how present he’ll be,” they warned. In a candid moment, Chase reflected, “These are my first few days home. I can only say how happy I am to now be back with my family. I’m feeling good.”
In 2018, Chase previously discussed his diagnosis of alcohol cardiomyopathy, attributing it to years of excessive drinking. “Heart failure is what it is,” he stated, emphasizing his recovery.
Chase, who gained fame as one of the original cast members of “Saturday Night Live,” expressed disappointment over being excluded from the show’s 50th anniversary special. “It was kind of upsetting, actually,” he said, revealing that he felt sidelined during the celebration.
Despite reaching out to “SNL” creator Lorne Michaels regarding his exclusion, Chase later dismissed it as a joke, but admitted it hurt to not share the stage with his former colleagues.
With the premiere of his documentary just around the corner, fans are eager to learn more about Chase’s journey and the lessons he has learned through adversity. As he continues to recover, his story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the importance of health.
Stay tuned for more updates as Chevy Chase shares his inspiring journey in the days ahead.
