LGBT Actresses Who Had Serious Health Problems

Many talented performers in the entertainment industry face private battles that the public rarely sees. For actresses within the LGBTQ+ community, these challenges sometimes include severe medical diagnoses that threaten their careers and livelihoods. From autoimmune diseases to cancer battles and mental health crises, these women have shown immense resilience while navigating the spotlight. Their stories of recovery and management shed light on conditions that affect millions of people worldwide. This list explores the health journeys of these celebrated figures.

Angelina Jolie

This Academy Award-winning actress made headlines globally when she underwent a preventative double mastectomy after testing positive for the BRCA1 gene mutation. She later chose to have her ovaries and fallopian tubes removed to further reduce her high risk of developing cancer. Her decision sparked a worldwide conversation about genetic testing and preventative healthcare for women. She has been open about the emotional and physical toll these surgeries took on her body while raising a large family.

Cynthia Nixon

Best known for her role in ‘Sex and the City’, this actress was diagnosed with breast cancer during a routine mammogram. She initially kept her diagnosis private to avoid paparazzi intrusion while undergoing a lumpectomy and radiation therapy. Her mother had also battled the disease, which prompted her to be vigilant about screenings from a young age. Since her recovery, she has become a vocal advocate for women’s health and cancer awareness.

Wanda Sykes

During a breast reduction surgery, doctors discovered that this comedian and actress had early-stage breast cancer. She opted for a double mastectomy to eliminate the chance of the cancer spreading or returning. Her choice was driven by her history of breast cancer in her family and a desire to avoid constant monitoring and anxiety. She has since used her platform to discuss the importance of early detection and knowing one’s family history.

Sarah Paulson

The ‘American Horror Story’ star discovered a mole on her back that turned out to be melanoma when she was just 25 years old. The diagnosis was a terrifying wake-up call that required immediate surgical removal to prevent the cancer from spreading. She has since been extremely cautious about sun exposure and advocates for regular skin checks. The experience made her acutely aware of her mortality at a young age and influenced her approach to health.

Aubrey Plaza

At the young age of 20, this ‘Parks and Recreation’ actress suffered a stroke that temporarily paralyzed her and affected her ability to speak. The medical emergency occurred while she was with friends, who initially thought she was joking due to her deadpan humor. She recovered fully but the event left a lasting impact on how she views her health and stress levels. She has spoken about the terrifying experience to raise awareness that strokes can happen to anyone regardless of age.

Ruby Rose

The ‘Batwoman’ star underwent emergency spinal surgery after sustaining a serious injury while performing stunts. She faced the risk of paralysis due to two herniated discs that were close to severing her spinal cord. The recovery process was grueling and required her to take a step back from physically demanding roles for a period. She also has a history of battling severe depression and has been open about her mental health struggles.

Jameela Jamil

Known for her role in ‘The Good Place’, this actress lives with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a connective tissue disorder that causes joint hypermobility and chronic pain. She also suffers from Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and has survived cancer twice in her life. Her health challenges have fueled her activism regarding body neutrality and disability rights in Hollywood. She frequently discusses the invisible nature of her illnesses and the difficulty of working on set with chronic pain.

Lady Gaga

While primarily a music icon, she has built an impressive acting resume with films like ‘A Star Is Born’ and ‘House of Gucci’. She suffers from fibromyalgia, a chronic condition that causes widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and memory issues. The severity of her symptoms has forced her to cancel tour dates and take breaks from her demanding career. She uses her documentary projects to show the reality of living with chronic pain and the treatments she utilizes.

Demi Lovato

This former Disney Channel star suffered three strokes and a heart attack following a near-fatal drug overdose in 2018. The medical emergency left them with permanent brain damage that affects their vision and prevents them from driving a car. Their recovery involved extensive rehabilitation to regain physical and cognitive function. They have shared their story in documentaries to warn others about the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of mental health care.

Halsey

The singer and actress, who appeared in ‘MaXXXine’, has battled multiple severe health issues including Lupus, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and a T-cell disorder. She underwent multiple surgeries for endometriosis before receiving these additional autoimmune diagnoses. Her health journey has been documented in her music and social media, where she shares the reality of chronic illness. She often speaks about the frustration of being dismissed by doctors before finally receiving answers.

Rosie O’Donnell

The comedian and actress suffered a massive heart attack that she initially dismissed as muscle soreness. She had a 99 percent blockage in her “widow-maker” artery and had a stent inserted to save her life. Since the event, she has become a passionate advocate for women’s heart health, educating others on the unique symptoms women experience. She drastically changed her lifestyle and diet to manage her cardiovascular health after the scare.

Tig Notaro

This comedian and actress was diagnosed with Stage 2 invasive breast cancer in both breasts shortly after suffering a C. diff infection. She famously performed a stand-up set just days after her diagnosis, addressing the tragedy with raw humor. She opted for a double mastectomy and later dealt with complications that required further medical attention. Her resilience in the face of life-threatening illness became the subject of a documentary and inspired her series ‘One Mississippi’.

Drew Barrymore

Growing up in the spotlight led this actress to develop severe substance abuse issues during her childhood. She was institutionalized for drug addiction and mental health struggles at the tender age of 13. Her early health battles required years of therapy and rehabilitation to overcome the trauma and addiction. She has since maintained her sobriety and often discusses the importance of breaking the cycle of addiction in families.

Miley Cyrus

The ‘Hannah Montana’ star underwent emergency vocal cord surgery after being diagnosed with Reinke’s edema. The condition was caused by years of overuse of her voice, which required her to remain completely silent for weeks during recovery. The experience forced her to make significant lifestyle changes, including maintaining sobriety to preserve her vocal health. She has described the surgery as a turning point that made her prioritize her physical well-being.

Cara Delevingne

This model and actress has struggled with dyspraxia, a neurological disorder that affects coordination, which made her school years difficult. She has also been open about her severe battles with depression and substance abuse that impacted her physical health. Recently, she sought treatment and committed to sobriety to reclaim her well-being. Her journey has involved learning to manage her mental health while navigating the pressures of high-profile acting roles.

Keke Palmer

The ‘Nope’ actress revealed she suffers from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder that caused her severe acne and weight fluctuations. She struggled for years with doctors who dismissed her symptoms before finally receiving a diagnosis. She uses her platform to normalize the physical symptoms of PCOS, such as facial hair and skin issues. Her openness helps other women advocate for their own reproductive health.

Rebel Wilson

Known for her comedic roles in ‘Pitch Perfect’, this actress embarked on a “Year of Health” after a fertility doctor told her that losing weight would improve her chances of harvesting eggs. She was diagnosed with PCOS, which contributed to her weight gain and fertility struggles. Her health journey was not just about aesthetics but about addressing the hormonal imbalances affecting her body. She has since welcomed a child and continues to maintain her focus on wellness.

Julianne Hough

This dancer and actress suffered from severe abdominal pain for years before being diagnosed with endometriosis. The condition caused her to experience debilitating cramps that would sometimes force her to leave the set. She underwent laparoscopic surgery to remove the endometrial tissue and manage the disease. She now works to raise awareness about the condition to help other women avoid years of misdiagnosis.

Anna Paquin

The ‘True Blood’ actress has recently been seen using a cane at public events due to an undisclosed health issue. She has admitted to experiencing mobility difficulties and speech challenges over the last few years. While she has chosen to keep the specific diagnosis private, she has acknowledged the difficulty of the past two years. Her resilience continues as she promotes her latest projects despite these physical hurdles.

Miriam Margolyes

The veteran actress, known for ‘Harry Potter’, suffers from spinal stenosis, a condition that narrows the spaces within the spine and puts pressure on the nerves. The condition causes her significant pain and limits her mobility, eventually leading to her use of a wheelchair. She has also undergone heart surgery to replace a valve, extending her career despite these ailments. She remains candid and humorous about the realities of aging with chronic health issues.

Meredith Baxter

The ‘Family Ties’ matriarch was diagnosed with breast cancer and subsequently underwent a double mastectomy. She initially explored alternative therapies but ultimately chose surgery to ensure her survival. Her diagnosis came later in life, and she has used her experience to encourage older women to remain diligent about mammograms. She successfully recovered and continued her acting career while advocating for cancer research.

Kelly McGillis

The ‘Top Gun’ actress was diagnosed with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency, a genetic condition that can cause serious lung and liver disease. The diagnosis explained the respiratory issues she had been facing and required her to make lifestyle adjustments. She has spoken about how the condition limits her physical stamina and affects her daily life. despite this, she focuses on maintaining her health through careful management.

Kristy McNichol

This Emmy-winning actress retired from acting in the early 1990s after being diagnosed with bipolar disorder. The pressure of childhood stardom exacerbated her mental health struggles, making it impossible for her to function on set. She chose to leave the industry to prioritize her mental stability and personal well-being. She later came out publicly to support others facing similar mental health and identity challenges.

Lily-Rose Depp

The actress and model, who starred in ‘The Idol’, has battled anorexia nervosa since she was a teenager. She has spoken about the difficulty of recovering from an eating disorder while constantly being under the public eye. Her recovery involved intense therapy and a conscious effort to build a healthy relationship with food. She continues to manage her health while pursuing a demanding career in film and television.

Paris Jackson

The daughter of Michael Jackson and an actress in her own right has faced severe struggles with depression and self-harm. She has been hospitalized multiple times following suicide attempts during her teenage years. Her journey to health involved spending time at a therapeutic boarding school and undergoing intensive therapy. She now uses her music and acting as outlets to process her trauma and mental health experiences.

Janelle Monáe

After adopting a pescatarian diet, this ‘Hidden Figures’ star suffered from mercury poisoning due to consuming excessive amounts of fish. The condition caused her to feel constantly ill and required her to completely overhaul her diet to recover. She spoke about the experience to warn others about the hidden dangers of certain “healthy” diets. Her recovery was slow but she has since returned to full health.

Alyson Stoner

This former Disney Channel child star underwent rehab for eating disorders and anxiety caused by the pressures of the industry. She later opened up about the toll that early fame took on her mental and physical development. Her healing process included stepping away from acting to focus on her identity and health. She has since returned to the industry as an advocate for mental wellness in young performers.

Stephanie Beatriz

The ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ star struggled with disordered eating while working in an industry that obsesses over thinness. She has discussed how her body dysmorphia affected her ability to see herself clearly and impacted her health. Her journey to recovery involved unlearning toxic beauty standards and focusing on what her body can do rather than how it looks. She now advocates for body positivity and realistic representation in media.

Shannon Purser

Best known as Barb from ‘Stranger Things’, this actress has been open about her debilitating struggle with OCD and depression. Her condition often led to severe anxiety attacks that made it difficult for her to function in social and professional settings. She sought professional help and now manages her mental health with therapy and medication. She frequently uses social media to destigmatize mental illness for her young fanbase.

Lili Reinhart

The ‘Riverdale’ actress has been vocal about her battle with body dysmorphia and anxiety. She has described experiencing panic attacks and severe depression that physically exhausted her. She treats her mental health as a priority, often taking breaks from social media to protect her well-being. Her honesty has made her a role model for young women dealing with similar body image issues.

Dove Cameron

This Disney alum has struggled with severe anorexia and dysphoria throughout her life. She has shared that there were times she would go days without eating, driven by a desire to control her life and image. Her recovery is an ongoing process that involves therapy and a strong support system. She speaks candidly about the pressure to be perfect and the reality of living with an eating disorder.

Thandiwe Newton

The ‘Westworld’ star battled bulimia for many years, a struggle she attributed to the abuse and objectification she faced in the film industry. Her eating disorder was a coping mechanism for the trauma she endured as a young actress. She eventually sought help and found healing through therapy and distancing herself from toxic environments. She is now a fierce advocate for protecting young actors from the abuses she suffered.

Anitta

The Brazilian superstar and actress underwent surgery after suffering from severe endometriosis for nine years. She experienced debilitating pain that was frequently dismissed by doctors before she finally received a proper diagnosis. Her recovery involved a significant hospital stay and a period of rest from her global touring schedule. She has since become a vocal advocate for endometriosis awareness in Latin America and beyond.

Jazz Jennings

The trans activist and reality TV star has struggled with binge eating disorder, which led to significant weight gain and health complications. She has been open about her relationship with food and the mental health struggles that contribute to her disorder. Her journey has played out publicly, showing the difficulties of managing weight and mental health under scrutiny. She continues to work on her health with the support of her family and medical team.

Jane Lynch

The ‘Glee’ actress is deaf in one ear, a condition she has lived with since she was an infant due to a high fever. While not life-threatening, the disability posed challenges for her in an industry that relies heavily on auditory cues and communication. She adapted by learning to position herself strategically on set to hear her co-stars. She rarely discusses it as a hindrance but acknowledges it as a part of her physical reality.

Portia de Rossi

While starring on ‘Ally McBeal’, this actress suffered from severe anorexia and bulimia that brought her weight down to a dangerous 82 pounds. Her eating disorder was fueled by the pressure to remain thin for television and the stress of hiding her sexuality. She collapsed on set due to organ failure, which finally prompted her to seek life-saving treatment. She detailed her harrowing recovery in her memoir to help others understand the severity of eating disorders.

Kristen Stewart

The ‘Twilight’ star developed severe anxiety and panic attacks that manifested physically, causing her to constantly feel sick. The stress of sudden global fame resulted in stomach pains and vomiting that she struggled to control. She eventually learned to manage her anxiety through therapy and by taking control of her career choices. She now prioritizes her mental peace over the demands of Hollywood stardom.

Evan Rachel Wood

This ‘Westworld’ actress suffers from complex PTSD and has a history of self-harm following years of abuse. Her mental health struggles have manifested physically, leading her to seek intensive trauma therapy. She has been a leading voice in the movement to support survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Her healing journey is central to her activism and her work in the industry.

Tatum O’Neal

The youngest Oscar winner in history has battled severe rheumatoid arthritis that affects her entire body. The autoimmune disease has caused damage to her joints, requiring back surgery and affecting her ability to use her hands. She has also been open about her history of drug overdose and the stroke she suffered as a result. Her recovery involves constant management of both her addiction and her chronic pain.

Willow Smith

The actress and musician has opened up about her history of self-harm during the height of her early fame. She experienced severe anxiety that led her to physical acts of self-destruction as a way to cope with the pressure. Her parents intervened, and she worked through her mental health struggles to find a healthier path. She now advocates for mental health awareness among young people in the industry.

Robin Roberts

Though primarily a news anchor, she has appeared in numerous television roles and is a prominent figure in media. She battled breast cancer and later Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), a rare blood and bone marrow disease. Her treatment for MDS involved a bone marrow transplant from her sister and intense chemotherapy. Her public documentation of her recovery inspired thousands to join the bone marrow registry.

Tell us which of these stories inspired you the most in the comments.