Freeman, the soothing yet commanding voice of divinity—he embodied the celestial being in the movies Bruce Almighty (2003) and Evan Almighty (2007)—suffers enduring physical harm as a result of a solitary car crash in close proximity to his residence in Mississippi.
This unfortunate incident took place in 2008, coinciding with his role as Lucius Fox in The Dark Knight, the second installment of The Dark Knight Trilogy.
As per reports, emergency responders utilized specialized rescue tools to free both him and his companion from the mangled wreckage of their Nissan Maxima, which had somersaulted multiple times. Following an aerial transfer to the hospital, he underwent a four-hour surgical procedure aimed at rectifying a fractured left shoulder, arm, and elbow—supposedly a treatment that would ensure a full recovery. However, as the beloved actor revealed in a 2010 interview, the outcome was long-term damage.
Freeman disclosed that he experienced persistent nerve damage in his left hand, which has not shown any signs of improvement, rendering it immobile. This explains his frequent appearance wearing a compression glove, designed to promote blood circulation and prevent swelling. In his own words, Freeman highlighted the realization that not moving one’s hand results in noticeable swelling, emphasizing the astonishing fact that we unconsciously move our hands countless times each day.
During the 2023 Oscars, Freeman graced the stage alongside Margot Robbie, donning a black tuxedo accompanied by a matching satin compression glove that extended up to his elbow. This wardrobe choice has become an indispensable tool for him, assisting in the management of the excruciating symptoms of Fibromyalgia, a condition characterized by widespread pain and debilitating fatigue.
Fibromyalgia, a chronic condition defined by the National Institute of Health, manifests as persistent and widespread pain throughout the body or in multiple regions. It commonly affects the arms, legs, head, chest, belly, back, and buttocks, causing sensations of aching, burning, or throbbing. Previously considered psychosomatic, fibromyalgia has now gained recognition as a clinical diagnosis by the American Medical Association. Alongside pain, individuals often experience fatigue, numbness, headaches, and sleep disturbances.
While a definitive cure for fibromyalgia remains elusive, a combination of approaches can aid in its management. These include engaging in exercise or movement therapies, receiving psychiatric and behavioral therapy, and utilizing appropriate medications.
In a 2012 interview, Freeman openly shared his ongoing struggle with this chronic condition. As described by Tom Chiarella, the author of the story, Freeman occasionally grips his left shoulder, visibly displaying the pain he endures. Whether he walks, sits, rises from his sofa, or stumbles across a damp meadow, the discomfort accompanies him persistently. Sadly, the pain proves more incapacitating than relieving. Chiarella depicts it as a vice-like grip, an icy surge of agony in a limb that feels somewhat ineffective. There are moments when Freeman, in an uncharacteristic manner, reveals a scowl that appears capable of bringing about the world’s end.
Recognizing Chiarella’s astute observation of his attempts to conceal his anguish, Freeman candidly attributes it to fibromyalgia. He explains that his arm oscillates between extreme discomfort and excruciating agony, making it an incredibly distressing experience.
Regardless of relinquishing specific pursuits like guiding his own airplane or cruising autonomously, Freeman wouldn’t permit his sickness to hinder his acting process. In a consequence of his mishap, he has graced the cinema with his presence, conveying vital exhibitions in acclaimed movies like Red (2010), Blankness (2013), Presently You See Me (2013), and The Contract Killer’s Better Half’s Protector (2021).
Famous for his uncommon flexibility, Freeman is broadly viewed as perhaps of the most phenomenal entertainer ever. All through his celebrated lifetime, he has charmed crowds with his remarkable depictions, acquiring him various selections for esteemed honors. Among his eminent jobs are Road Brilliant (1987), Driving Miss Daisy (1989) which earned him a sought-after Brilliant Globe, Shawshank Reclamation (1994), Invictus (2009), and Million Dollar Child (2004) where he prevailed with an Oscar for Best Supporting Entertainer. Furthermore, he has transformed imperative movies, for example, Robin Hood: Ruler of Criminals (1991), Unforgiven (1992), Amistad (1997), and Gone Child Gone (2007).
Freeman’s particular and full voice has likewise fit improving narratives, carrying profundity and gravitas to activities like Long Way Home (1997), Walk of the Penguins (2005), The Tale of God with Morgan Freeman (2016-2019), and Our Universe (2022).
Freeman continues to thrive, with his upcoming projects including Gunner, A Good Guy, and The Ritual Killer. His co-star in The Ritual Killer, Cole Hauser from Yellowstone, showered Freeman with praise, describing him as incredible and an extraordinary individual. Not only is Freeman a remarkable actor, but he also takes on the role of a mentor on set. During the scenes they shared, Freeman generously provided Hauser with valuable advice and gentle reminders, leaving a lasting impression on his co-star. Hauser couldn’t help but express his admiration, emphasizing how truly amazing Freeman’s guidance was.
The resilient actor is not alone in battling this illness.
In 2017, the exceptionally talented singer Lady Gaga revealed that she, too, experiences intense pain due to fibromyalgia. Expressing her frustration towards those who question the legitimacy of fibromyalgia, Gaga emphasized in an interview that she becomes greatly distressed by such skepticism. She urged people to cultivate empathy, as persistent pain is a serious matter that should not be trivialized. Waking up each day with uncertainty about one’s own well-being is a daunting reality that demands understanding and support.
Among those affected by this condition, we find actress and comedian Janeane Garofalo, notable for her performances in Reality Bites (1994) and Romy and Michelle’s High School Reunion (1997). Joining this roster is renowned Irish singer Sinead O’Connor, celebrated for her unforgettable rendition of “Nothing Compares 2 U” (1990). Additionally, actor Susan Flannery, recognized for her contributions to the soap opera The Bold and the Beautiful, shares in this experience. We also pay tribute to the late singer-songwriter Rosie Hamlin, who bravely battled cancer and left behind a lasting legacy, including her cherished song “Angel Baby” (1961).
The thought of a world without Freeman and his comforting voice, capable of captivating audiences even with the most mundane subjects, is truly challenging to fathom. We encourage you to share your reflections on Freeman and how he navigates through this invisible illness.
Together, let us extend healing thoughts to Freeman and all individuals who bravely confront the trials of fibromyalgia.