Actor Bob Odenkirk recently revealed his regret over dismissing the advice of a “cranky” conservative doctor during a podcast. The discussion arose when Odenkirk recounted a health scare that took place on the set of "Better Call Saul" in 2021. During the podcast with comedian Tig Nataro, Odenkirk expressed his frustration with his longtime heart doctor who had shown conservative political views.
At the age of 50, Odenkirk visited his heart doctor at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, only to discover signs in the office stating, "We do not accept Obamacare." This revelation unsettled him, as he had never before realized this side of his doctor. The actor shared that his doctor advised him to start taking statins, a medication that helps lower cholesterol. However, Odenkirk hesitated, stating that heart disease did not run in his family. Nevertheless, his doctor insisted that he take the medication.
Feeling uncertain about his doctor's advice, Odenkirk sought a second opinion from a different doctor. To his surprise, the second doctor disagreed, telling him he did not need medication at that point in time. Unfortunately, Odenkirk experienced a heart attack later on and began to believe that his initial doctor had been correct in prescribing the statins. The actor admitted, "The cranky conservative jackass was right because he was a good doctor. His political point of view doesn't have anything to do with his ability to judge your health and your health choices and needs."
The health scare that Odenkirk had encountered on the set of "Better Call Saul" occurred in July 2021 when he suddenly collapsed and was rushed to the hospital. The incident was reportedly shocking and traumatizing for his co-stars and crew members, who stood by his side and accompanied him to the hospital. However, Odenkirk made a remarkable recovery and was able to return to the set in September 2021, resuming filming for the popular television series.
In a subsequent interview on NBC's “Today” in March 2022, Odenkirk opened up about the incident, expressing gratitude for the support he had received. Although he was not present during the traumatic event, he acknowledged the impact it had on his colleagues and friends. Odenkirk emphasized the importance of the people in his life who stood by him, stating, "I'm told it was a pretty shocking day on set and traumatizing for all my co-stars and crew members, people I love very much who love me and stood by my side and then went to the hospital with me."
Reflecting on the experience, Odenkirk recognized the value of his first doctor's medical expertise, regardless of their differing political views. The actor's regret over dismissing the advice serves as a reminder that health decisions should be based on professional knowledge rather than personal biases. Odenkirk's story serves as a cautionary tale, urging individuals to prioritize their health above political affiliations.
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