George Clooney is limiting his engagements at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival due to health issues. The 64-year-old actor did not attend press events or social gatherings promoting his new movie, Jay Kelly, which is featured at the festival in Venice, Italy.
According to a spokesperson, Clooney was advised by doctors to reduce his public appearances after developing a sinus infection. This illness led to his absence from the press junket and a cast dinner on August 27, events where his co-stars Adam Sandler and Laura Dern were present.
Festival Appearances Missed Amid Sinus Infection
Clooney was also not present the following day at the film’s press conference. The event moderator explained,
“As you may know, George Clooney is not going to be here because he has a bad sinus infection,”
and added,
“We really hope, and I think he should be on the red carpet tonight. But he is very sorry he cannot be with us.”
Director Noah Baumbach made light of the situation, noting, “Even movie stars get sick.”
Arrival at Venice and Film Overview
George and Amal Clooney arrived in Venice on August 26, seen walking hand in hand through the city. Clooney wore a black polo shirt and beige pants, while Amal chose a yellow jumpsuit complemented by sunglasses. The couple, married since 2014, made a low-key entrance before the festival activities intensified.
Details about Jay Kelly’s storyline remain mostly confidential, but Netflix described the film as focusing on an aging actor, Jay (played by Clooney), embarking on a European road trip with his manager Ron (Adam Sandler).
Exploring Themes in ‘Jay Kelly’
The official synopsis states,
“Along the way, both men are forced to confront the choices they’ve made, the relationships with their loved ones, and the legacies they’ll leave behind,”
highlighting the film’s reflective tone as it examines personal and professional reckonings.
Clooney’s Perspective on Co-star Adam Sandler’s Acting Range
George Clooney recently praised Adam Sandler’s talents beyond comedy. Speaking to Vanity Fair, he remarked,
This film, more than any film Adam has done, shows what a beautiful, heartfelt, soulful actor he is — I kept telling the cast, ‘Don’t call him Sand Man. Don’t talk to him like he’s just some goofy comedian. He’s actually a really beautiful, wonderful actor,’
and added,
Because of what [Adam’s] paycheck is, which is doing big goofy comedies, when he does these other, beautiful, Uncut Gems kinds of movies, it reminds people of that. He’s not just a good comedian.
Upcoming Release Dates for ‘Jay Kelly’
Jay Kelly will have a limited theatrical release beginning November 14. Following this, Netflix will make the film available globally for streaming on December 5, offering audiences worldwide the chance to view the project after its festival debut.
