‘Jaws’ Star Richard Dreyfuss, 77, Shares Concerning Health Update
Hollywood legend Richard Dreyfuss has been forced to cancel his appearance at this year’s SharkCon due to illness. The 77-year-old Jaws star revealed in an Instagram video posted by event organizers that he’s battling viral bronchitis, making travel impossible.
Dreyfuss expressed deep regret about missing the Tampa-based shark enthusiast convention (July 12-13), explaining doctors advised against his planned five-hour flight. “I’m terribly sorry,” said the Oscar-winner, who had been looking forward to meeting fans at the National Geographic-sponsored event.
All pre-purchased meet-and-greet opportunities with Dreyfuss will be automatically refunded. The actor emphasized he didn’t want to risk spreading his highly contagious condition or worsening his own health. “I’d feel worse about exposing you to this illness,” he told disappointed fans.
Bronchitis causes painful airway inflammation and mucus buildup, typically lasting two weeks. While acute cases (like Dreyfuss’) are usually viral and temporary, chronic versions require ongoing treatment. Smokers and those with respiratory conditions face higher risks.
Best known as oceanographer Matt Hooper in Jaws (1975), Dreyfuss made history as the youngest Best Actor Oscar winner (29) for 1977’s The Goodbye Girl. His acclaimed career spans classics like Close Encounters, Stand By Me, and Mr. Holland’s Opus (earning another Oscar nod).
The actor has been transparent about his bipolar disorder struggles while maintaining an active career in film/TV. SharkCon attendees will miss hearing his firsthand Jaws stories, but Dreyfuss promised to reschedule: “There will be other times.”
Event organizers highlighted Dreyfuss’ iconic shark movie legacy while announcing his absence. The annual convention celebrates shark conservation through celebrity panels, exhibits, and documentary features – making the Jaws star’s participation particularly meaningful for fans.
