Actor Chad Michael Murray recently opened up about a terrifying medical crisis he faced at the age of 15, during which he lost half of his blood and spent over two months hospitalized. The One Tree Hill star shared the details of this traumatic event in a heartfelt interview, shedding light on how the experience shaped his life and career.
Life-threatening internal injury in adolescence
At just 15 years old, Murray was physically fit, but an unexpected medical emergency struck when his intestines twisted, triggering severe internal bleeding. This condition was difficult to diagnose because of his strong abdominal muscles, which initially masked the symptoms. The delay in identifying the issue caused rapid deterioration in his health, plunging him in and out of consciousness during a frightening ordeal for both him and his family.
A near-death moment and critical intervention
During the crisis, Murray experienced a moment that remains etched in his memory. He said,
I just remember seeing my father, the weakest I’d ever seen him, and a priest at the end of my bed. They’re talking about last rites and all that stuff, and [the nurse, Sandy] gave me a blood transfusion to save my life.
—Chad Michael Murray, Actor
This blood transfusion administered by Nurse Sandy was pivotal in stabilizing his condition, yet the threat to his life was not over. The internal bleeding caused multiple organ failure, requiring a second surgery after his body had a chance to recover. The physical toll was overwhelming, with Murray’s weight dropping drastically from 180 pounds to a mere 118 pounds.
The aftermath of a grueling hospital stay
Murray’s hospital stay lasted two and a half months and involved several surgeries to repair the damage caused by the internal bleeding. Upon leaving the hospital, he struggled to recognize himself. He described the shock, saying,
I was a skeleton when I got out,
and added,
I remember looking in the mirror the first time going, ‘Who is that?’ Like, I cried. I couldn’t believe that I was looking back at that guy.
—Chad Michael Murray, Actor
Strengthening family bonds and finding new purpose
The difficult experience also strengthened Murray’s relationship with his father, who had raised five children on his own and remained by his side throughout the hospital ordeal. The time spent confined to a hospital bed watching movies and television shows further inspired Murray to pursue acting as a profession. He expressed a desire to bring joy to others through his work, stating his commitment to
give people something to smile about.
—Chad Michael Murray, Actor
Current projects and legacy of survival
Now 43 years old, Chad Michael Murray continues his acting career and is currently starring in the film Freakier Friday, which is in theaters. His near-death experience as a teenager remains a powerful part of his story, illustrating not only his physical resilience but also how adversity helped shape his passion and determination in life.
