8 Stars You Never Knew Had Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a group of neurological disorders characterized by seizures or fits. Unfortunately, the cause of epilepsy is unknown, but it can develop from brain tumors, strokes plus drug and alcohol abuse. You may be surprised to learn that some of your favorite celebrities suffer from the disease. Although, the disorder can be very debilitating, these stars you never knew had epilepsy will inspire you to strive for success in spite of disabilities.

1. Lil Wayne

The 5’4 New Orleans rapper spoke publicly about his lifelong battle with epilepsy after he was hospitalized in 2013. Lil Wayne suffered from a series of seizures following the shooting of a music video. The rapper admits that his busy schedule and lack of sleep often trigger seizures. We also think he should take a break from the “purple drank,” a harmful concoction of prescription-strength cough syrup he likes to consume.

2. Danny Glover

The actor, producer and humanitarian has been performing on screen and stage for over 25 years. Glover, who’s best known for his roles in films like The Color Purple, Lethal Weapon and Angels in the Outfield, suffered from epilepsy as a child and young adult. But the actor, now 68, says he has not had a seizure since he was 35. He still brings awareness to the disease by supporting the Epilepsy Foundation.

3. Prince

The Grammy Award winning artist attributes his epilepsy for allowing him to develop his unique persona and individualism. Prince recently opened up about his battle with epilepsy as a child, admitting that peers constantly teased and shunned him, forcing him to spend time alone and develop his musical talents. Prince was definitely able to create something positive from such a negative disorder, he has produced ten platinum albums and thirty “Top 40” singles during his career.

4. Susan Boyle

The 2009 Britain’s Got Talent sensation has been gaining success ever since she shocked viewers with her mezzo-soprano vocals. Boyle admits that she suffered from epileptic fits regularly while going to school. The Scottish singer says her peers would torment her because of her learning disabilities, as the star’s neurological disorder went undiagnosed for a number of years. Boyle says the disease has made her strong to criticism.

5. Hugo Weaving

The Australian actor best known for starring in the Lord of the Rings and Matrix series admits that his epilepsy began in his teenage years. Weaving says that he never let the disease hold him back, however it did prevent him from being able to get his driver’s license. The actor always hope he would outgrow the seizures and he has. Weaving hasn’t had an epileptic fit in over 18 years.

6. Rick Harrison

The dry-humored star of History Channel’s hit series, Pawn Stars, developed epilepsy at age eight. Harrison says the disease forced him to spend lots of time indoors alone as a child, which allowed him to develop an affinity for history and physics. Fortunately, the reality star outgrew the disorder while he was in his teens, and hasn’t had a seizure in over 30 years. Harrison currently co-owns the World Famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop just off the Las Vegas Strip and has gained much success from his business.

7. Neil Young

The Canadian singer-songwriter’s career has spanned over 45 years and 35 rock albums. Young, who’s considered “one of rock and roll’s greatest songwriters and performers” has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice throughout his career. The Grammy Award winning musician has achieved tremendous success despite his battle with epilepsy. Today, Young and his wife host the Bridge School Concerts, which benefit children with disabilities.

8. Martin Kemp

The Spandau ballet bassist and English media personality developed epilepsy after having two brain tumors removed in 1995. Kemp is very passionate about raising awareness about the disease. Kemp, who’s been able to suppress his epileptic seizures, has taken medication daily for 18 years.