Christina Applegate hospitalized amid MS battle

The actress has been grappling with the autoimmune disease for years.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 6:12pm

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An extreme close-up X-ray photograph revealing the intricate network of the human nervous system, with glowing neural pathways and synapses against a dark background, conceptually representing the complex inner workings of the body affected by multiple sclerosis.A haunting X-ray view of the nervous system, highlighting the challenges faced by those living with the unpredictable and debilitating effects of multiple sclerosis.Los Angeles Today

Actress Christina Applegate has been hospitalized in Los Angeles as she continues to manage her multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis. The 54-year-old star of "Married... With Children" has been open about her struggle with the autoimmune disease since revealing her diagnosis in 2021.

Why it matters

Applegate's hospitalization highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the millions of Americans living with MS, a chronic and often debilitating condition that affects the central nervous system. Her public journey with the disease has helped raise awareness and understanding of MS.

The details

According to reports, Applegate has been in a Los Angeles hospital since last month as she receives treatment and care for her MS. The actress first revealed her diagnosis in 2021, sharing that she had been privately dealing with the disease for years prior. Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system that disrupts the flow of information within the brain and between the brain and body.

  • Applegate revealed her MS diagnosis in August 2021.
  • The actress has reportedly been hospitalized in Los Angeles since March 2026.

The players

Christina Applegate

A 54-year-old actress best known for her role on the sitcom "Married... With Children". She has been open about her battle with multiple sclerosis since revealing her diagnosis in 2021.

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What they’re saying

“Christina is currently in the hospital receiving care for her multiple sclerosis. She is grateful for the outpouring of support and asks for privacy at this time as she focuses on her health.”

— Applegate's representative

What’s next

Applegate's representatives have not provided a timeline for her release from the hospital or further details on her current condition. Fans and supporters continue to wish the actress well as she navigates her ongoing battle with MS.

The takeaway

Applegate's hospitalization serves as a reminder of the serious and unpredictable nature of multiple sclerosis, a disease that affects over 2.3 million people worldwide. Her openness about her journey has helped destigmatize the condition and inspired others living with chronic illnesses.