Full Breakdown
Drew Carey Reflects on Heart Attack Misconceptions and Lifestyle Changes
3/6/2026, 7:54:56 AM
Misconceptions About Heart Attacks
Drew Carey, the comedian and host of "The Price is Right," recently shared his experience of a heart attack during the filming of "The Drew Carey Show" in the early 2000s. He revealed that he initially ignored the symptoms because he believed in a common misconception: that heart attacks only occur when someone dramatically clutches their chest and collapses. During a jog, Carey experienced symptoms such as a rapid heart rate and numbness in his shoulder, which he later recognized as indicators of a heart attack. However, he dismissed them, thinking, "I thought if you had a heart attack, you would go ugh and fall down like in a cartoon."
The Day of the Heart Attack
On the day of the incident, Carey felt fine during rehearsal but experienced tightening in his chest afterward. He attempted to call his doctor but instead decided to go to his trailer. Upon reaching the stairs, he realized the severity of his condition and called for an ambulance, fearing he was having a heart attack. Before heading to the hospital, he reached out to his friend Sam Simon to say goodbye, uncertain of what would happen next. Carey was hospitalized overnight, where doctors inserted a stent to address a 95% blockage in one of his arteries.
Lifestyle Changes Post-Heart Attack
Following his heart attack, Carey made significant lifestyle changes. He began to prioritize healthier eating habits, shifting from a diet heavy in steak and potatoes to incorporating more vegetables and salads. He noted that he no longer consumes alcohol and has adopted a more active lifestyle. Carey expressed his astonishment at how different his diet is now compared to 20 years ago, stating, "I wouldn't have touched this," referring to his newfound appreciation for vegetables.
Official Statements & Responses
In his podcast, "Where Everybody Knows Your Name," Carey emphasized the importance of recognizing heart attack symptoms and not relying on misconceptions. He shared his journey of recovery and the support he received from friends and medical professionals, including a doctor who helped him transform his health.
Criticism & Opposition
While Carey's story highlights the need for awareness regarding heart health, some health experts argue that misconceptions about heart attack symptoms can lead to dangerous delays in seeking medical attention. They stress the importance of education on the varied symptoms that can present during a heart attack, particularly for women, who may experience different signs than the stereotypical chest pain.
Verbatim Quotes
- “ He said he was experiencing "all the things that I read were heart attack symptoms, but I thought if you had a heart attack, you would go ugh and fall down like in a cartoon.” — Drew Carey
- “ "After that, I would go to a steakhouse, I'd eat the steak, the vegetables, not order a potato or not touch it, not really have the bread and I just drink water all day," he said.” — Drew Carey
Carey's experience serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding heart health and the potential consequences of ignoring symptoms.
