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Joe Manganiello is one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors.
But despite her many years in the limelight, the photogenic star has managed to keep a tight lid on the details of her personal life.
That’s about to change, thanks to a new memoir in which Manganiello opens up about his private struggles, including a series of health problems that nearly cost him his life.
In newly published excerpts from Bloodlinesreveals Joe endured a devastating seven-year battle with autoimmune-related diseases that attacked multiple parts of his body and ultimately resulted in a life-saving organ amputation.
According to a synopsis for the book, Manganiello’s health began to deteriorate after what he describes as a “cascade of autoimmune-related diseases” affected his skin, thyroid, eyes, lungs and digestive system.
The actor reportedly suffered chronic pain, multiple medical crises and a protracted battle that left doctors unable to provide clear answers about what happened to him.
The health battle eventually led to a life-saving organ amputation, though Manganiello has not publicly disclosed which organ was removed.
In a statement to People magazine, Manganiello reflected on the experience and the toll it took on him.
“It was the most brutally difficult time of my life, one I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy, but also my greatest adventure,” he said.
The 49-year-old explained that his search for answers eventually extended beyond traditional medicine.
After doctors were unable to determine the cause of his illness, Manganiello turned to alternative paths that included spiritual exploration, genealogy, ancient myths and other unconventional practices.
That trip reportedly led him to uncover stories about his ancestors, including relatives who survived the Armenian Genocide and family members who also struggled with chronic illness.
Manganiello says the process of writing Bloodlines helped him understand the suffering he was enduring and gave him a new perspective on his life.
He expressed hope that readers facing their own challenges can find encouragement in his story and discover that healing can exist on the other side of even the darkest struggles.
Slated for release in October, the memoir promises to explore not only Joe’s medical ordeal, but also his rise to stardom, his sobriety and his failed marriage with Sofia Vergara.
Fans of Manganiello’s just now learning about his health issues will hopefully appreciate the reminder that some of the toughest fights are the ones fought away from the spotlight.
