Actor Joe Manganiello has disclosed the severe repercussions of treatments he underwent for a "deadly mystery illness," revealing that the interventions led to a "life-saving organ amputation" and "brutal side effects."
Manganiello, 49, shared in an Instagram video that he "suffered in silence" for years while battling the undisclosed condition, seeking help from "the best doctors in the world." Despite their efforts, standard treatments with "high-powered biological drugs" reportedly worsened his symptoms and introduced "brutal side effects" that persisted for years. He described experiencing "excruciating bouts of chronic pain" and being "heavily medicated" for months.
A Long Fight for Answers
The actor explained that his journey involved "very serious operations and procedures that mutilated parts of my body," leaving him so weak at times that he could not stand or walk. This health crisis prompted him to spend a decade researching his family history, a pursuit reflected in the title of his forthcoming memoir, "Bloodlines," set for release on October 13. He mused that his illness might not have been random and that healing required an alignment of his mind, body, and spirit, open to "radical and unorthodox techniques and ideas that lie beyond the boundaries of western medicine."
According to a press release, Manganiello has been dealing with "a cascade of autoimmune-related illnesses" that affected his skin, thyroid, eyes, lungs, and digestive system. This seven-year ordeal, marked by chronic pain, the organ amputation, and an existential crisis, left medical professionals without clear explanations. Frustrated by the limitations of conventional medicine, he explored alternative avenues, including "shamans, pagan rituals, ancient myths, long-lost family records and the rebirth of his own spirituality." His genealogical research uncovered ancestors who had survived the Armenian genocide and lived with chronic illness.
"Bloodlines" is described as more than a memoir of medical crisis; it's an exploration of inheritance, masculinity, faith, ambition, and identity. It examines how the past influences the present and the nature of strength and survival.
Manganiello's personal life has also seen significant changes during this period. He and actress Sofía Vergara finalized their divorce in July 2023 after seven years of marriage. He announced his engagement to model and actress Caitlin O'Connor in October 2025, stating the proposal had occurred in June 2025.