Billy Porter has opened up about his health in a candid update.
Back in September, the Our Son star had to leave his Cabaret engagement early after developing sepsis.
“Due to a serious case of sepsis, Billy Porter must also withdraw from the production. His doctors are confident he will make a full recovery, but have advised him to maintain a restful schedule,” the show’s producers announced at the time.
In the months that followed, Porter kept a low profile, avoiding public discussion of his medical emergency.
That changed on 22 December, when the 56-year-old shared a heartfelt message in a lengthy Instagram video.
“I’m here, first and foremost, to say happy holidays. Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, Happy Hanukkah, and everything in between,” Porter began.
“Some of you may or may not know that I was in the hospital, very ill this fall, with urosepsis. It was not easy. It’s been a very challenging four months, and I want everybody to know that I am on the road to a full recovery.”
The former Gay Times cover star added that he’s not fully recovered yet, but is “on the road to that,” becoming visibly emotional as he spoke.
John Novotny for GAY TIMES
“I wanted to thank everybody for your prayers and your love and for sending me all the vibes. I felt every single one of them. And I know I’m alive today because of my family, extended family, friends, communities, and strangers,” he continued, holding back tears.
“I’m very grateful to all of you. And at some point, I will talk about it more in detail and on my terms, which always means creatively in some way.
“So I’m here being silent, being present, being quiet and listening to the universe, to God, whatever it is you believe in, to show me the right way. So, proof of life bitches! She’s alive!”
Towards the end of the video, Porter also shared news about his upcoming holiday project, Christmas Karma, a retelling of A Christmas Carol.
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“I play the ghost of Christmas Present. It’s a musical,” he continued. “It’s a very good movie, and I hope you enjoy it. I love you all. Happy New Year, and that’s it.”
Since sharing his heartfelt update, the video’s comment section has been flooded with supportive messages from fans and industry peers alike.
Porter’s Pose co-star Michaela Jaé Rodriguez wrote: “Lawd I love you and shall you continue to recover beautifully.”
Oscar winner Octavia Spencer echoed similar sentiments, commenting: “We still have a phone call to catch up on. Praise the good Lord, you’re on the road to restored health because there is no one like you! Merry Christmas!”
We’re sending all our love and positive energy to Billy Porter as he continues his recovery.
