Chevy Chase, the iconic comedian known for his roles in films such as “Caddyshack” and the “National Lampoon” series, faced a serious health crisis during the Covid pandemic. A few months later Jayni, his wife, bravely told the traumatic story that left Chase hospitalized. His hospital stay lasted five weeks, including eight days in a medically induced coma.
Jayni knew that something was off with Chase, but he didn’t know how to express or explain what he was experiencing. This increasingly dire scenario led her physicians to prepare their daughter, Caley, to expect the worst. “We might not get him back. We don’t know how present he’ll be. Prepare yourselves for the worst,” she recalled the doctors stating during this challenging time.
After decades of alcohol abuse, Chase’s health deteriorated and he fell gravely ill. This lifestyle led him to develop cardiomyopathy, a condition where the heart muscles weakened and had difficulty effectively pumping blood. Unfortunately, this decline in his cardiovascular health led to a catastrophic medical event that required immediate intervention.
Though Chase was hospitalized, his co-stars Garrett Morris and Laraine Newman still performed on stage in his absence. Their performance was a powerful reminder of just how deeply missed he was by his peers and his fans. The new James Callahan documentary, I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not, chronicles the events leading up to his health crisis. Along the way, it provides a fuller picture of his challenges and highlights his incredible resolve.
When Chase awoke from his coma, Jayni shared that “all he could do was use his voice,” marking a pivotal moment in his recovery journey. The road ahead is still very unclear, but as this saga continues, both Jayni and Caley are determined to help him get through this tough time.
Chase’s story is a stark reminder of the potential consequences of prolonged substance use and the importance of seeking help. As he fights his health challenges, the legacy left behind him as one of America’s beloved entertainers.