Legendary “Jaws” star Richard Dreyfuss is prioritizing both his health and the safety of his fans. He delivered a heartfelt message from his hospital bed after a sudden illness forced him to cancel a highly anticipated appearance. The beloved actor, 77, has canceled his appearance at SharkCon 2024 after revealing a sudden illness in a message recorded from his hospital bed.
In a video shared on SharkConâs official Instagram account on July 11, he addressed fans directly from his hospital bed.
âI am very, very sorry to tell you that I’ve been diagnosed with viral… what is it?… viral bronchitis,â Dreyfuss said in the clip, pausing as a woman behind the camera helped him recall the term.
Dreyfuss Puts Fansâ Health First
The actor shared that doctors have advised him not to travel. âI’ve been told by my doctors I cannot fly, and I would have to fly five hours to get there,â he said. âI’m terribly sorry because I had planned to be there and had been looking forward to it.â
Despite the disappointment, Dreyfuss emphasized that canceling the trip was the safest option for everyone involved. âI don’t want to get anyone else sick, and I don’t want to get sicker myself,â he said.
âI feel terrible about not showing up, and I feel worse about exposing you to this apparently very viral illness.â
SharkCon, held at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa, featured a packed lineup celebrating all things shark-related.
The event took place from July 11 to July 13, and Dreyfuss had been one of its most anticipated celebrity guests, especially as Jaws recently marked its 49th anniversary in June.
Fans & Celebrities Show Their Support
Following the post, fans flooded the comment section with heartfelt messages and well-wishes.
Rosie O’Donnell commented, âI love u Richard â¤ï¸â¤ï¸â¤ï¸â¤ï¸.â
Sharon Stone wrote: “Honey, feel better. The world is not good without you then come over and give me a hug.”
Other followers chimed in with support: âPlease get better soon ð¦â¤ï¸,â one fan wrote. âYou take care and get better!! That is the number one priority. You are loved. Heal up soonððâ another added.
Another fan shared a sweet anecdote and wrote: “My buddy was a limousine driver in NYC, and his company drove a lot of stars. He said most stars ignored you and were aloof but Richard Dreyfus was the best! Always chatting with the drivers, and such a cool guy. They all loved him”
SharkCon also assured ticket holders that prepaid autographs and photo ops with Dreyfuss would be automatically refunded within 5â10 business days (depending on bank processing times).
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