30+ Celebrities with Chronic Illnesses: Hidden Struggles

Catherine Zeta-Jones - Bipolar Disorder

Catherine Zeta-Jones, a Welsh actress, admitted herself into a mental health facility in 2011 after being diagnosed with bipolar II disease, according to a press statement from her office. The stress of living with her husband's illness was thought to be the catalyst for the disorder, which had lengthier depressive spells than other varieties. Michael Douglas, Zeta-Jones' husband since November 2000, was battling stage four throat cancer. The Oscar-winning Zeta-Jones returned to the institution in 2013 and decided to live separately from Douglas while they both worked on their health. They resumed their relationship completely in 2014 and are claimed to be in good health.

Richard Simmons- Skin Cancer (now deceased)

Richard Simmons, the quirky American fitness star, recently revealed his battle with skin cancer and shared his experience on Facebook. He saw a strange bulge under his right eye and attempted to cure it with Neosporin, but it did not go away. Concerned, he went to his dermatologist, who diagnosed him with basal cell carcinoma. Despite initial attempts to eradicate the malignant cells, Simmons was eventually cancer-free after undergoing many surgeries. He encouraged others to schedule frequent check-ups, emphasizing the importance of early detection. Simmons' health had raised concern earlier when he stated that he was "dying," which he later stressed was not the case, but simply a reminder to appreciate each day. Simmons died in July 2024 as a result of fall-related complications and heart illness. He was 76.