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Tori Spelling Battled Illness for 2 Months, Leaned on Kids for Help
The Beverly Hills, 90210 alum says her extended sickness was "hell" for her family.
Published on Feb. 9, 2026
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Tori Spelling, 52, revealed she was sick for eight weeks with multiple illnesses, including sinus issues, the flu, COVID-19, and RSV. The mom of five said she was so ill that her children had to help her with basic tasks like walking to the bathroom, and her daughter Stella had to rearrange her schedule to pick up the youngest child from school. Spelling said the experience was "heartbreaking" and "depressing" as she had to rely on her kids to manage the household again after previously getting back into cooking for the family.
Why it matters
Spelling's extended illness highlights the challenges many parents face when dealing with prolonged health issues, especially those without the means to hire outside help. Her story resonates with many families who have had to navigate caring for their children while also managing their own medical needs.
The details
Spelling said the illnesses started with sinus issues that she believes her five children brought home, but it quickly escalated. She experienced the "worst flu-like symptoms" along with an inner ear infection and vertigo, requiring multiple rounds of antibiotics. The only thing that provided relief was an antibiotic-infused nasal rinse.
- Spelling was sick for a total of eight weeks.
- The illnesses began in late 2025.
The players
Tori Spelling
A 52-year-old actress best known for her role on the TV series Beverly Hills, 90210, and a mother of five children.
Liam, Stella, Hattie, Finn, Beau
Spelling's five children, ranging in age from 8 to 18, who had to help care for their mother during her extended illness.
Dean McDermott
Spelling's ex-husband and the father of her five children.
What they’re saying
“When mom goes down, the ship goes down.”
— Tori Spelling (People)
“It has been hell.”
— Tori Spelling (People)
“I now know the name of every, you know, virus and bacterial thing out there. There's enterovirus, there is, rhinovirus, there is COVID.”
— Tori Spelling (People)
What’s next
Spelling did not provide any specific details about future plans or events related to her health or family situation.
The takeaway
Spelling's experience highlights the immense challenges faced by parents, especially single parents, when dealing with prolonged illness. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of having a support system and resources available to help manage household and caregiving responsibilities during times of personal health crises.
