13 Celebrities With Dangerous Liver Disease, PBC
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While battling a harrowing heroine addiction, Russian Doll's Natasha Lyonne contracted Hepatitis C, which led to her contending with liver disease.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Lyonne said her addiction left her “as good as dead.”
Natasha Lyonne, the distinctive and talented actress with a career spanning nearly three decades, was born in New York City in 1979. From her early years, Lyonne exhibited a charismatic spark that led her to be cast in Pee-wee's Playhouse, a popular children's television show, at the age of six. Following this initial exposure, she quickly ascended the ladder of stardom, earning roles in prominent films such as Slums of Beverly Hills and American Pie. A significant turning point in Lyonne's career came when she was cast in Orange is the New Black, a critically acclaimed Netflix series where she played the character Nicky Nichols. Her performance, imbued with authenticity and rawness, won her an Emmy nomination and cemented her status as a powerhouse performer. Despite facing personal struggles, including health issues and substance abuse, Lyonne managed to stay dedicated to her craft. Her resilience and grit resonated with many, making her an influential figure in Hollywood. Lyonne's creative prowess extends beyond acting; she co-created, directed, and starred in the Netflix series Russian Doll, a role for which she received multiple award nominations. The series, praised for its unique storytelling and innovative concept, showcases Lyonne's versatility as a performer and her ability to thrive behind the camera. With a compelling journey marked by triumphs and trials, Natasha Lyonne continues to inspire through her talent, tenacity, and indefatigable spirit.- Photo:
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Baywatch bombshell Pamela Anderson famously accused her ex-husband and Motley Crue drummer Tommy Lee for giving her Hepatitis C via a tattoo needle.
The Hepatitis C led to Anderson developing PBC as a side effect of the disease. According to People Magazine, Anderson was recently cured of Hep C.
Pamela Anderson, born on July 1, 1967, in Ladysmith, British Columbia, Canada, is an iconic figure in the entertainment industry. She is best known for her acting career, particularly her role as C.J. Parker in the hit television series Baywatch, which aired from 1989 to 2001. However, Anderson's talents extend beyond acting; she is also a model, author, producer, and activist. Her journey to stardom began when she was discovered at a British Columbia Lions football game, where her image on the stadium's big screen caught the attention of a beer brand's marketing team. This chance encounter led to her first modeling contract. Anderson moved to Los Angeles to pursue her career, where she soon landed a role in the sitcom Home Improvement, followed by her defining role in Baywatch. Her charisma and beauty made her a household name, leading to appearances on several magazine covers, including multiple features in Playboy magazine. Despite her success in Hollywood, Anderson has never shied away from using her platform to advocate for causes close to her heart. She is a dedicated animal rights activist and a long-time member of PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals). Anderson has also authored several books, including novels and collections of her own poetry.According to Billboard, Steven Tyler was diagnosed with Hepatitis C after he hadn't presented any symptoms for years. As a side effect of the liver disease, Tyler developed PBC.
But thanks to an intensive chemotherapy treatment, Tyler said that the disease is “nonexistent in my bloodstream as we speak, so it’s one of those few miracles in doctoring where it’s like a complete cure. It’s gone.”
Steven Tyler, born Steven Victor Tallarico on March 26, 1948, is an American musician, songwriter, and former television personality. He established himself as a prominent figure in the realm of rock and roll, primarily recognized as the lead vocalist and enduring symbol of the Boston-based band Aerosmith. Tyler's distinctive screeching vocals, high energy performances, and eclectic wardrobe have made him a dominant force in rock music for over half a century. Tyler's journey into music began at a young age, when he was influenced by his father's love for classical music. However, it was after meeting Joe Perry in Sunapee, New Hampshire, that the foundations for Aerosmith were laid. The band, formed in 1970, went on to produce numerous chart-topping hits like "Dream On," "Sweet Emotion," and "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing." Aerosmith, with Tyler at its helm, has sold more than 150 million records worldwide, making it one of the best-selling bands of all time. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001, a testament to their significant contribution to the genre. In addition to his musical career, Tyler also ventured into television, serving as a judge on the popular reality show, American Idol, for two seasons. His candid, outgoing personality added a new dimension to the show and broadened his appeal beyond the boundaries of rock music. Despite personal battles with drug addiction and several stints in rehab, Tyler has remained a resilient figure in the entertainment world. His rollercoaster life has been marked by highs and lows, but through it all, Steven Tyler remains a symbol of rock and roll longevity.In an interview with The Guardian, Academy Award nominee Ken Watanabe was battling leukemia when he contracted Hepatitis C during a blood transfusion for his cancer treatment. This led to Watanabe to developing PBC.
It is no wonder that actor Ken Watanabe has played many roles as a Japanese samurai throughout much his career. Like the warriors of old, Watanabe has practiced a code of humility, honor and modesty with his approach to acting and stardom-even his first name is a common moniker meaning modesty. Watanabe has also faced death with the fearlessness of the samurai when he was diagnosed with leukemia in 1989. Though he would eventually recover, Watanabe spent the first half of the 1990s in and out of the hospital. But he never despaired and once healthy, Watanabe continued his venerable acting career with the same command for respect and integrity of the most ardent warrior.- Photo:
Marianne Faithfull has survived a lot in her lifetime, from breast cancer to a long COVID hospitalization.
Unfortunately, Faithfull also battled Hepatitis C, which consequently led to the development of PBC. Thankfully, Faithfull came out on the other side stronger than ever.
Born in London on December 29, 1946, Marianne Faithfull has made significant contributions to the worlds of music, film and theater. A woman of many talents, Faithfull's career has been characterized by her versatile skills and continuous reinvention. Marianne's journey in the entertainment industry began in the 1960s when she transitioned from being a successful model to a singer. She gained fame with her debut single "As Tears Go By," becoming one of the lead female artists during the British Invasion in the United States. In the subsequent years, she worked with notable musicians like Mick Jagger and Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones, creating numerous hits. However, her career saw a brief downturn due to struggles with substance abuse and homelessness. Undeterred, Faithfull made a remarkable comeback in the late 1970s with the critically acclaimed album Broken English, demonstrating her resilience and immense talent. Apart from her musical endeavors, Faithfull also shone in the world of acting. She starred in films such as Girl on a Motorcycle and Irina Palm, receiving praise for her intense performances. Her theatrical credits include an adaptation of Bertolt Brecht's The Threepenny Opera. Additionally, she penned two memoirs that offer a candid look into her fascinating life and career.- Photo:
Grammy Award-winning singer Natalie Cole contracted Hepatitis C unfortunately due to years of drug use. According to Reuters, she once had to cancel a string of concerts due to her issues with PBC.
In 2015, the songstress passed from congestive heart failure.
Natalie Cole, born on February 6, 1950, was a renowned American singer-songwriter and actress. The daughter of two of the most celebrated figures in American music history, vocalist Nat King Cole and former Duke Ellington Orchestra singer Maria Hawkins Ellington, she carved out her unique place in the entertainment world with an illustrious career spanning over four decades. Her journey in the music industry was marked by a fusion of genres, including R&B, pop, and jazz, which contributed significantly to her legacy as a multifaceted artist. Cole's music career took off in the mid-1970s with her debut album Inseparable, which earned her two Grammy Awards. Over the subsequent years, she released numerous successful albums, including Unpredictable and Thankful, both of which were certified platinum. However, it was her 1991 album Unforgettable... with Love, featuring virtual duets with her late father, that became her biggest hit, selling over seven million copies in the United States alone and winning her three Grammy awards. Despite her thriving career, Cole's life was not without adversity. She battled drug addiction for many years, and her health issues later included Hepatitis C and kidney disease, culminating in a kidney transplant in 2009. Despite these challenges, she continued to perform and record new music until her untimely death in 2015. Natalie Cole's enduring influence on the music industry is evident in her extensive discography, numerous awards, and the admiration of countless fans worldwide.- Photo:
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Naomi Judd was one of many celebrities who bucked the American stigma of Hepatitis C and liver diseases. The American Liver Foundation wrote a tribute to her, commending her strength in the face of the disease, as well as her charitable work.
Unfortunately, Naomi passed in 2022 after a long battle with her mental health.
Naomi Judd, born Diana Ellen Judd on January 11, 1946, in Ashland, Kentucky, is a celebrated figure in the world of country music. She kick-started her career alongside her daughter, Wynonna Judd, forming the Grammy-winning duo, The Judds. Their story, from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of success in the 1980s, serves as a tale of perseverance and passion. Judd's early life was marked by struggle and hardship, including a teenage pregnancy and a failed marriage. However, she transformed these challenges into stepping stones towards her future success. Working as a nurse while raising her two daughters, Judd began singing with Wynonna as a hobby. This pastime paved the way for their breakthrough in the music industry, leading to a string of number one hits such as "Why Not Me" and "Grandpa (Tell Me 'Bout the Good Old Days)". Their rich harmonies and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences, making The Judds one of the most successful acts in country music history. In the early 1990s, Naomi Judd announced her retirement due to a Hepatitis C diagnosis, marking the end of The Judds' era. However, she did not retreat from the public eye. Judd authored several self-help books, sharing her experiences and life lessons. She also made appearances in acting roles and as a motivational speaker, showcasing her versatility beyond music. Despite personal health battles and the constant trials that came her way, Naomi Judd's resilience continues to inspire millions, making her a true icon in the entertainment industry.- Photo:
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Kieron Dyer
According to GoodTo, soccer player Kieron Dyer urgently needed a liver transplant after being diagnosed with PBC, which is rarely found in patients without a pre-existing liver condition like Hepatitis C.
Kieron Courtney Dyer (born 29 December 1978) is an English former professional footballer who played as a midfielder. Born in Ipswich, Dyer played youth football for his home club Ipswich Town before going on to make nearly 100 league appearances for the club's first team. He was sold to Newcastle United for £6 million, at the time the highest fee paid for an Ipswich player, and made nearly 200 appearances for Newcastle between 1999 and 2007. A move for the same fee to West Ham United followed, but Dyer suffered from various injuries, restricting him to 30 league appearances in four seasons. After a short loan back to Ipswich in March 2011, he signed for newly promoted club Queens Park Rangers ahead of their 2011–12 Premier League season. However, his time at QPR was again blighted by injuries and he made just eight appearances for the club before being released in January 2013, spending the rest of the season at Middlesbrough before retiring. Dyer represented England on 33 occasions between 1999 and 2007. He was a member of the England squads which reached the quarter-finals at the 2002 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2004.David Crosby had Hepatitis C, which led to PBC complications.
David Crosby, born on August 14, 1941, is a revered figure in the realm of music, known for his distinctive voice and guitar work. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Crosby's early engagement with folk music set the stage for a career that would span over five decades and influence countless artists. Crosby began his professional music career as a founding member of both The Byrds and Crosby, Stills & Nash - two groups that were instrumental in shaping the sound and ethos of the 1960s rock scene. With The Byrds, he developed their signature harmonies and was pivotal in the creation of their biggest hits. In Crosby, Stills, & Nash, his songwriting took center stage, contributing to anthems like "Wooden Ships" and "Almost Cut My Hair", which have since been etched into the annals of music history. However, it was not all smooth sailing for Crosby. His life has been characterized by a series of personal challenges, including battles with drug addiction and health issues. However, these struggles have served as fuel for his creativity, resulting in music that is deeply personal and reflective. Despite his trials, David Crosby remains a resilient figure in the music world, continuing to create, perform, and inspire. His contributions to music and cultural heritage are undeniable, making him a vital part of the fabric of American popular music.- Photo:
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Etta James passed from Leukemia complications in 2012, but she was also known to have struggled with liver disease and Hep C.
Etta James, born as Jamesetta Hawkins on January 25, 1938, was an influential American singer who redefined the landscape of R&B, soul, and blues. Her journey began in Los Angeles, California, where she sang in a church choir as a child. This early experience set the stage for her remarkable career marked by raw emotional performances and evocative vocals, which led to the creation of timeless hits like "At Last," "Tell Mama," and "I'd Rather Go Blind." James's music career spanned over five decades and saw her navigate through diverse genres, from gospel and blues to jazz and rock music, displaying her range and versatility as an artist. She signed with Chess Records in the 1960s, which catapulted her to fame and allowed her music to reach a wider audience. Over the years, her unique sound won her a collection of prestigious awards, including six Grammys and 17 Blues Music Awards. In 1993, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, securing her place in the history of music. Despite battling personal issues and addictions throughout her life, Etta James's enduring spirit and unparalleled talent secured her legacy as one of the greatest singers in American music. Her influence can be seen in numerous artists who followed in her footsteps, reflecting the lasting impact she had on the music industry. Even after her death on January 20, 2012, James's music continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, cementing her status as an unforgettable icon of the 20th century.- Photo:
According to The New York Times, Lou Reed passed away from liver disease, which occurred due to him initially contracting Hepatitis C from an unsafe needle.
Lou Reed, born as Lewis Allan Reed in 1942, was an iconic figure in the world of rock music. Raised in Freeport, Long Island, he was drawn to rhythm and blues and jazz at a young age. Reed started his musical journey in high school, playing in several bands before attending Syracuse University, where he studied journalism, film directing, and creative writing. His college years were instrumental in shaping his future music career, with poet Delmore Schwartz having a profound influence on his songwriting and literary sensibilities. Reed's breakthrough came in the mid-1960s when he co-founded The Velvet Underground, a band that, while not initially commercially successful, garnered significant critical acclaim and is now considered one of the most influential bands in rock history. Reed's candid narratives about drugs and urban life, combined with the band's experimental sound, laid the groundwork for punk and alternative rock. Following his departure from The Velvet Underground in 1970, Reed embarked on a solo career that spanned multiple decades and cemented his status as a rock legend. Despite facing personal struggles, including battles with drug addiction, Reed continued to produce music that resonated deeply with audiences. Albums like Transformer and Berlin stand as testament to his immense talent and enduring impact. His lyrics, often dark and gritty, painted vivid portraits of life's underbelly, earning him the moniker "the poet laureate of punk." Reed passed away in 2013, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire musicians and fans alike. His ability to blend raw emotion with innovative musical techniques has solidified his place in the record books.- Photo:
Anita Pallenberg and Keith Richards' son, Marlon Richards, told The New York Times that Pallenberg's passing in 2017 was due to complications from Hepatitis C and liver disease.
Anita Pallenberg (6 April 1942 – 13 June 2017) was a German-Italian actress, artist, and model. A style icon and "It Girl" of the 1960s and 1970s, Pallenberg was credited as the muse of the Rolling Stones: she was the romantic partner of Stones multi-instrumentalist Brian Jones, and later, from 1967 to 1980, the partner of Stones guitarist Keith Richards, with whom she had three children.- Photo:
Anita Roddick
In an interview with The Guardian, the entrepreneur revealed that she had contracted Hepatitis C from a blood transfusion while giving birth to her daughter Sam in 1971.
She passed away in 2007 due to a brain hemorrhage.
Dame Anita Lucia Roddick, (23 October 1942 – 10 September 2007) was a British businesswoman, human rights activist and environmental campaigner, best known as the founder of The Body Shop, a cosmetics company producing and retailing natural beauty products that shaped ethical consumerism. The company was one of the first to prohibit the use of ingredients tested on animals and one of the first to promote fair trade with developing countries. Roddick was involved in activism and campaigning for environmental and social issues, including involvement with Greenpeace and The Big Issue. In 1990, Roddick founded Children on the Edge, a charitable organisation which helps disadvantaged children in Eastern Europe, Africa and Asia. She believed that business should offer a form of moral leadership, being a more powerful force in society than religion or government.In the late 1990s, she became involved in advocating for the Angola Three, African-American prisoners at the Louisiana State Penitentiary who had already been held in solitary confinement for decades. She helped raise international awareness and funds to aid in their appeals of flawed trials.