Fox News host Sean Hannity took to social media on Wednesday, June 24, to clear the air about his noticeably different appearance and voice, putting an end to weeks of online speculation with a straightforward explanation: a pinched nerve and the medication used to treat it.
As first reported by The American Tribune, Hannity posted on X that the whole thing started during a workout when he pinched a nerve in his neck. He noted that he had already discussed the issue multiple times on his radio show, but the chatter on social media apparently warranted a more public response.
"My doctor put me on prednisone to reduce the inflammation, and while it's helping, it led to laryngitis and some puffiness, which is normal for this medication," Hannity wrote. For anyone who has ever taken prednisone, the side effects he described are textbook. The steroid is widely prescribed for inflammation but is well known for causing facial swelling and voice changes.
Hannity seemed amused that his temporary appearance shift generated more online buzz than just about anything else in his career. "Apparently a few weeks of prednisone has generated more social media commentary than 30 years of ratings success," he quipped.
The Fox News star also made it clear he is not slowing down, noting that he is still training despite the injury. He wrapped up his post by thanking supporters for their concern and well wishes, including what he described as attention from left-leaning media outlets. "Sorry to disappoint them, but a pinched nerve, a raspy voice, and a puffy face aren't taking me out anytime soon," he wrote.
Viewers had already noticed the changes during his Tuesday, June 23 broadcast, when Hannity appeared visibly puffier and sounded raspier than usual. That night, he was focused on political commentary, taking aim at the growing influence of democratic socialist candidates in New York City following their recent election wins.
"The so-called Democratic Socialist movement in this party is not a good thing," Hannity said during the segment. He went on to describe the candidates and their backers as "driven by envy, resentment" and accused them of wanting to "fundamentally change" the country rather than support it.
Hannity continued his critique, arguing that the movement rejects meritocracy and individual freedoms. "They want you to own nothing. They want you to live your life in service to the government," he said.
Regardless of where viewers fall on the political spectrum, the health update appears to be a case of a common medication doing exactly what it does. Hannity is recovering, still on the air, and clearly not letting a puffy face keep him from making his opinions known.
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