'True Blood' star Joe Manganiello shares secret multi-year health battle, organ removal

June 24, 2026 - 02:49

Actor Joe Manganiello, best known for his role on "True Blood," is opening up about a private health crisis that lasted for years and ultimately led to the removal of an organ. The 48-year-old star shares the full story in his upcoming memoir, "Bloodlines," which is set for release on October 13.

In the book, Manganiello details a painful and confusing medical ordeal that doctors initially struggled to diagnose. He describes suffering from severe abdominal pain and other debilitating symptoms that disrupted his life and career. After consulting numerous specialists and undergoing a battery of tests, he finally received a diagnosis that required surgical intervention. The procedure involved the removal of his gallbladder, an organ that had become chronically inflamed and infected.

Manganiello says the experience was both physically and emotionally draining. He kept the battle largely out of the public eye, choosing to focus on recovery rather than publicity. The actor notes that the health scare forced him to reevaluate his priorities and his relationship with his own body. He hopes that by sharing his story, he can help others who are dealing with similar undiagnosed conditions feel less alone. "Bloodlines" promises to be more than just a celebrity tell-all; it is a raw account of personal struggle and resilience.