Morgan Freeman appears at Oscars 2025 with single-gloved hand amid fibromyalgia struggle
HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA: Morgan Freeman’s appearance at the Oscars 2025 with a single black glove on his left hand reignited discussions about his long-term health struggles with fibromyalgia, a condition that has plagued him since a devastating car accident in 2008.
Among the many unforgettable moments of the evening, Freeman’s emotional tribute to his late co-star and close friend Gene Hackman stood out.
Morgan Freeman's tribute overshadowed by health speculations
Gene Hackman, who died under mysterious circumstances in February, was a beloved figure in the entertainment world, and Morgan Freeman took a moment to honor his enduring legacy.
However, as Freeman took the stage, keen-eyed viewers quickly noticed a peculiar detail, his left hand was covered in a singular black glove.
This seemingly small fashion choice sparked a wave of discussion on social media, with many questioning whether it was merely a style statement or a necessity.
It was soon revealed that the 87-year-old Hollywood icon continues to battle fibromyalgia, a painful and chronic condition that has plagued him for over 15 years.
Morgan Freeman's battle with fibromyalgia
Morgan Freeman’s struggle with fibromyalgia dates back to a near-fatal car accident in 2008.
The 'Shawshank Redemption' actor was driving near his home in Charleston, Mississippi, when his vehicle lost control and flipped multiple times.
Emergency responders had to cut Freeman free from the wreckage before he was airlifted to a nearby hospital for urgent treatment.
The accident left the then-71-year-old actor with multiple injuries, including a broken arm and elbow, according to Daily Mail.
While he survived the crash, Freeman later revealed that it had left him with permanent nerve damage, which in turn led to fibromyalgia.
The condition left his left hand paralyzed and subjected him to chronic, excruciating pain that extends from his arm to various parts of his body.
Morgan Freeman opens up on 'excruciating' pain from fibromyalgia
In a 2012 interview with Esquire magazine, Morgan Freeman candidly spoke about the intense pain he experiences daily, stating, "It gets so bad. Excruciating."
He explained that the nerve damage prevents him from moving his hand properly, leading to swelling and discomfort.
To manage this, he wears a compression glove, a measure that helps promote blood circulation and prevent fluid buildup.
What is fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
In the United States alone, it is estimated that approximately 4 million adults live with the disorder..
Despite its widespread prevalence, the exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unknown.
Medical experts believe that fibromyalgia is linked to misfiring brain signals that alter the way nerves transmit pain messages to the body.
This leads to an increased sensitivity to pain, muscle stiffness, fatigue, cognitive difficulties (often referred to as “fibro fog”), and even mental health struggles such as anxiety and depression.
The condition is particularly challenging because its symptoms can fluctuate over time.
Some patients experience long periods of relief, while others suffer sudden, debilitating flare-ups.
