Advertisement
Comedian Kathy Griffin, 64, was recently spotted in Malibu, stepping out without makeup and sporting her natural hair and merchandise from her 2018 Laugh Your Head Off World Tour. She was seen walking alongside a male friend, but the sighting has drawn a mix of concern and commentary online, particularly in the wake of her continued association with the infamous 2017 photo scandal involving a likeness of former President Donald Trump.
While some fans were supportive, others reacted more harshly. A few social media users compared her look to fictional horror characters, saying she appeared “unrecognizable” and expressing shock at her appearance. Despite the harsh commentary, it’s important to note that Griffin has faced several health and personal battles in recent years that may explain the visible changes.
Kathy Griffin’s medical history
In April 2025, Griffin underwent a major surgery—a hysterectomy—as a precaution against a precancerous condition. This involved the removal of her uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. This followed an earlier health challenge in 2021, when she was diagnosed with stage 1 lung cancer, requiring the removal of part of her left lung. Although she had never smoked, the surgery affected her vocal cords and overall well-being.
Griffin has also been candid about her mental health. In 2023, she revealed she was diagnosed with complex PTSD, a condition she partly attributes to the backlash from the Trump photo. She spoke publicly about dealing with anxiety, panic attacks, and even suicidal thoughts, along with a past addiction to prescription pills that peaked around 2020.
Her openness has shed light on the lasting toll public scrutiny and personal trauma can take. Despite everything, Griffin continues to engage with fans on social media, often with her signature candidness and dark humour.
Earlier in her life, she famously shaved her head in 2017 to support her sister Joyce during chemotherapy—a gesture that reflects both her vulnerability and fierce loyalty to family.