Tori Spelling Battled 'Hopeless' Depression During 2-Month Illness

The actress detailed her struggle with a prolonged sickness that left her bedridden and unable to work.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

Tori Spelling, 52, recently opened up about an intense eight-week-long illness that left her feeling "hopeless" and depressed. The Beverly Hills, 90210 alum said she experienced a range of symptoms, including sinus issues, inner ear infections, and vertigo, that made it difficult for her to even walk to the bathroom. Spelling was "on so many rounds of antibiotics" but "nothing was working" until she tried a nasal rinse with medications. The actress, who shares five children with ex-husband Dean McDermott, said the illness was likely passed around her household, which she jokingly referred to as "five petri dishes."

Why it matters

Spelling's candid account sheds light on the mental and physical toll that prolonged illness can take, especially for busy working parents. Her story resonates with many who have struggled with chronic or recurring health issues that impact their daily lives and emotional well-being.

The details

Spelling explained that the illness started with sinus problems and progressed to include an inner ear infection, Eustachian tube issues, and vertigo. She was "flat on [her] back" at first and needed help from her kids to even walk to the bathroom. Doctors initially told her she was only improving by 10%, which Spelling found unacceptable. It took multiple rounds of antibiotics and a nasal rinse medication before she started to recover.

  • Spelling's illness began on December 16, 2025.
  • She was sick for a total of 8 weeks, unable to work during that time.

The players

Tori Spelling

A 52-year-old actress best known for her role on the 1990s TV series Beverly Hills, 90210. She is a mother of five children.

Dean McDermott

Spelling's ex-husband, who she said was "super helpful" during her illness.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It has been hell. Hell is individual to all of us, but this has been hell. I know I have had a past of getting sick a lot, infrequently, but this one took me down.”

— Tori Spelling (MisSpelling* podcast)

“It gets to the point where it's depressing being in bed. I don't want to be back up in that bed again.”

— Tori Spelling (MisSpelling* podcast)

The takeaway

Spelling's experience highlights the mental and physical challenges that can come with prolonged illness, especially for busy parents. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of self-care and seeking proper medical treatment, even when recovery feels elusive.