EntertainmentJimmy Kimmel's emotional plea after son's third heart surgery

Jimmy Kimmel's emotional plea after son's third heart surgery

Sean Penn on Jimmy Kimmel Live!
ABC
Sean Penn on Jimmy Kimmel Live! ABC
Images source: © Licensor | ABC
Basia Żelazko

28 May 2024 08:07

Comedian, popular talk-show host, and television producer Jimmy Kimmel openly shared with fans what happened to his family. Kimmel has a several-year-old son who was born with a heart defect. He recently underwent his third severe surgery.

Jimmy Kimmel himself informed about his sick son on air, making a memorable appearance in 2017. He started his live program differently than usual, making an extraordinarily moving confession.

Struggling to hold back tears, Kimmel spoke about the recent birth of his son, Billy. Unfortunately, the joy of the new family member's birth didn't last long. Just three hours after delivery, hospital staff noticed that something was wrong with the newborn. Preliminary tests revealed that little Billy was born with a severe heart defect, requiring immediate surgical intervention. Thanks to the quick diagnosis and decision to operate, Kimmel's son successfully underwent the necessary procedure.

Kimmel's moving speech ended with an appeal to the United States' leaders. The showman urged the authorities not to allow divisions in health insurance for citizens, especially medical care for newborns. He called for the fight for a common goal.

Kimmel's son underwent another surgery

It now turns out that last weekend, little Billy, who is now seven years old, underwent his third open-heart surgery. A valve was implanted. In his Instagram post, Kimmel thanked the staff at the hospital in Los Angeles, his wife, and his son for his courage and good humour.

Jimmy Kimmel wrote about his son's surgery on Instagram.
Jimmy Kimmel wrote about his son's surgery on Instagram.© Licensor

Kimmel earns millions and belongs to that privileged group of people who don't have to worry about financing the best medical care. However, the family's drama made him realize how many less fortunate families experience tragedy due to a lack of funds. Therefore, he has advocated for free healthcare for US citizens for several years.