UPDATE: Chevy Chase has opened up about a life-threatening health scare that left him hospitalized for five weeks in 2021. The 82-year-old actor details his near-fatal experience in the upcoming documentary, “I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not,” set to premiere on January 1, 2024 on CNN.
Chase’s daughter, Caley, revealed in the documentary that her father “has basically come back from the dead.” She recounted a harrowing moment when Chase’s heart unexpectedly stopped, prompting immediate medical attention. His wife, Jayni, described the chaos of that day: “Something was wrong, and he couldn’t explain to me what was wrong. So, we go to the ER. His heart stops.”
In a shocking revelation, Chase was placed in a coma for eight days as doctors battled to stabilize his condition. His longtime friend, Peter Aaron, shared that the family was warned to “prepare yourselves for the worst.” Medical professionals feared they might not bring him back, and if they did, they were uncertain of his recovery.
The actor had been diagnosed with alcohol cardiomyopathy, a serious condition that weakens the heart muscle due to excessive drinking. Chase previously discussed his diagnosis in a 2018 interview with The Washington Post. He confirmed, “Heart failure is what it is,” but now reassured fans, “I am fine now.”
After the traumatic five-week ordeal, Chase expressed immense gratitude for his recovery. “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,” he stated to Page Six, reflecting on his health battle.
The documentary also sheds light on Chase’s feelings of exclusion during the recent 50th anniversary celebration of Saturday Night Live, where he was present but did not participate in the tribute. “It was kind of upsetting, actually,” he admitted. “I expected that I would’ve been on the stage too with all the other actors.”
Chase reached out to SNL creator Lorne Michaels about his absence from the stage, but later downplayed his feelings as a joke. “Somebody made a mistake, and they should’ve had me on that stage. It hurt,” he revealed.
This documentary promises to give fans an intimate look at not only Chase’s health struggles but also his reflections on his storied career and personal relationships.
As the premiere date approaches, fans and followers eagerly anticipate insights into the life of the comedic legend who has faced significant challenges yet remains a beloved figure in Hollywood.
Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the premiere of “I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not.”
