Drew Carey Ignored Heart Attack Symptoms Before Seeking Help

The comedian thought he was experiencing a misconception about heart attacks.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Comedian Drew Carey had heart attack symptoms while jogging but still went to work the next day for a show taping before calling an ambulance from his trailer after his condition worsened. Carey said he didn't realize he was having a heart attack because he believed the misconception that a person is supposed to clutch their heart and fall down during a heart attack.

Why it matters

Carey's experience highlights the importance of recognizing and acting on heart attack symptoms, even if they don't match common misconceptions. Ignoring warning signs can lead to serious health consequences, and Carey's story serves as a reminder for others to seek medical attention promptly.

The details

Carey said he was jogging to lose weight before returning to taping for "The Drew Carey Show" when his heart rate spiked to 160 bpm and he felt numbness in his shoulder. Despite experiencing symptoms he recognized as potential signs of a heart attack, Carey decided to slow down and continue his jog. The next day, he went to the studio for rehearsal, but felt his chest tighten again, prompting him to call for an ambulance from his trailer. Carey was hospitalized overnight and received a stent.

  • While jogging, Carey's heart rate spiked to 160 bpm.
  • The next day, Carey went to the studio for rehearsal before calling an ambulance from his trailer.
  • Carey was hospitalized overnight and received a stent.

The players

Drew Carey

A comedian known for starring in the 1990s-2000s sitcom "The Drew Carey Show".

Sam Simon

The developer of "The Simpsons" who was also working on "The Drew Carey Show".

Marc Vahanian

An actor who helped Carey with his first post-heart attack workout.

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What they’re saying

“I was really overweight, and we were supposed to come back to taping. So, I had a little chest heart monitor and whatever. And I was jogging down my street and my heart rate went up to like 160 or something like that, like really crazy, and I was like, 'Oh,' And I felt like numb in my shoulder.”

— Drew Carey, Comedian (Where Everybody Knows Your Name)

“I just wanted to make sure I touched him before I went off because I didn't know what was going to happen.”

— Drew Carey, Comedian (Where Everybody Knows Your Name)

What’s next

Carey's doctor will continue to monitor his health and provide guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle following his heart attack.

The takeaway

Carey's experience underscores the importance of recognizing and acting on potential heart attack symptoms, even if they don't match common misconceptions. His story serves as a reminder for others to seek prompt medical attention when experiencing concerning health issues.