Actor Joe Manganiello is revealing a devastating health battle that nearly cost him his life.
In his upcoming memoir Bloodlines, Manganiello says he spent seven years battling autoimmune-related illnesses that affected his thyroid, digestive system, skin, lungs and eyes. The chronic conditions eventually led to a life-saving organ amputation.
After doctors struggled to identify the cause, Manganiello explored alternative treatments, spiritual practices and his family history, including stories of ancestors who survived the Armenian genocide.
He describes the experience as the “most brutally difficult time” of his life, but says it also transformed him and gave him a new perspective on suffering and healing.
Best known for True Blood, Magic Mike and Spider-Man, the actor kept much of his health struggle private.
His memoir Bloodlines is scheduled for release October 13 and will reveal more about his health battle, family history and spiritual journey.