Lauren Weedman Shares Update on Bell’s Palsy Diagnosis, Says She’s Unable to Fully Smile: ‘I’ve Accepted It More’ (Exclusive)

**Lauren Weedman Opens Up About Living with Bell’s Palsy at Hacks Premiere**

At the Los Angeles premiere of HBO’s “Hacks” Season 5, actress Lauren Weedman reflected on the profound impacts of her Bell’s palsy diagnosis, which she received in August 2024. The 57-year-old shared candid insights about her health journey and how her perspective has evolved over the past two years.

Weedman revealed to PEOPLE, “I have permanent nerve damage,” adding that this condition has made simple actions, such as smiling, challenging. “I’ll never have a smile thing,” she mentioned, demonstrating the effects of her diagnosis during the event. She noted an interaction with the paparazzi, who requested a beaming smile, to which she responded, “I have a disability.” Nevertheless, she emphasised that she has gradually come to terms with her situation.

Acceptance was not immediate for Weedman, who experienced a profound sense of sadness initially. “I was secretly very sad,” she admitted, explaining that it took several sessions with her physical therapist to truly comprehend the permanence of her condition. “It’s a chronic condition. It’s never going to go away, Lauren. You’re always going to have this,” the therapist told her, prompting her to confront her emotions. “I don’t know how to even process that,” she pondered.

The actress further described the emotional toll of not recognising her own face as she aged. “To think you’re not going to look like you… that’s a journey,” she said, likening her struggle with Bell’s palsy to the natural process of growing older. “I feel like I had a couple of nights where I got some come-to-Jesus moments,” she added, highlighting the emotional reckoning she faced.

Weedman found comfort and encouragement from those who have faced similar challenges. Actor Joe Mantegna, who was also diagnosed with Bell’s palsy decades ago, offered her kind words of wisdom. “Don’t worry, this is your face. It’s a good face and you got to accept it,” Weedman recalled him saying. His perspective resonated with her deeply. “It is what it is,” she quoted him, feeling grateful for his supportive presence.

In addition to professional relationships, familial support has played a crucial role in her journey. Her son, Leo, light-heartedly remarked, “Mom, it’s no big deal. This is your Bell’s palsy era, that’s all,” demonstrating the understanding and love that surrounds her.

Interestingly, Weedman’s experiences with Bell’s palsy have been correspondingly integrated into her roles on various shows, including “Hacks,” “Abbot Elementary,” and “Sirens.” She praised the team behind “Hacks” for welcoming her without prejudice to her condition, stating, “They didn’t care that I had it going on, which was incredible.” This inclusive approach enabled her to participate fully in her craft despite her health challenges.

As “Hacks” Season 5 prepares to premiere on April 9, Weedman’s journey underscores an important narrative of resilience and acceptance. By sharing her story, she not only raises awareness about Bell’s palsy but showcases the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Lauren Weedman’s openness about her health challenges offers a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and understanding in the entertainment industry and beyond. Her journey reflects both personal growth and the support of a community willing to embrace her, disabilities and all.