- Kathie Lee Gifford disclosed she experienced "debilitating" chronic pain , attributing it to the physically demanding nature of her entertainment career; the former Today host admitted in a new interview with People .
- Over the past two years, the 72-year-old underwent a total hip replacement in 2024, followed by a second hip surgery after overextending herself during recovery, and more recently, cataract surgery.
- Gifford admitted the pain was so intense that she "wanted to die a few times," clarifying that she never intended to harm herself.
- She reflected on her decades in the industry, noting the physical toll from roles such as performing pratfalls as Miss Hannigan in "Annie."
- Through multiple surgeries, stem cell therapy, and consistent physical therapy, Gifford reports she is now able to actively engage with her five grandchildren.
IN FULL
Kathie Lee Gifford admits she wanted to ‘die a few times’ amid struggle with chronic pain
