Bam Margera Reportedly Hospitalized, on Ventilator

Bam Margera has reportedly been hospitalized and placed on a ventilator. According to TMZ, the former Jackass star was admitted to a San Diego hospital earlier this week with a serious case of pneumonia. Later, he tested positive for Covid-19, which complicated his situation. The outlet reports that Margera was placed on a ventilator in the hospital’s intensive care unit, due to his condition. He is said to be stable at this time. 

The news of Margera’s hospitalization comes after months of reports about his battle with sobriety. Earlier this year, the MTV alum sat down for a very honest chat about alcoholism with his old for the Steve-O’s Wild Ride podcast. However, in a separate introduction to the conversation, the host noted that the “episode was recorded a while back and we held onto it until now,” as Margera had recently been reported to be struggling with his sobriety. During the conversation, Margera explained, “I did a year of alcohol treatment and I actually have never felt better.” He went on to say, “I actually didn’t realize I had such a problem that I did. And…”

At this point, Steve-O interjected and asked, “Did or do (have a problem)? That’s a distinction that we need to be clear about.” Margera replied, “Yeah, I guess ‘do.’ Because (Brandon) Novak [former fellow Jackass star] said, ‘Dude, if you just do a year you will understand how much better you will feel. Because you always go 30 to 60 days, maybe 90 tops. But if you just do a year you’ll understand.’ And I called him up after and I’m like, ‘Novak, I understand. I get it. I feel great now.” Margera added, “You know, I do not want that lifestyle. I’ve got a 4-year-old. I don’t miss the hangovers whatsoever. And I just don’t want to return to that anymore.” 

In his introduction, Steve-O referred to the “Free Bam” movement, which was sparked by fans of Margera advocating for him under the presumption that he’s being held in conservatorship — similar to what Britney Spears was under — against his will. The Jackass star reiterated what Margera’s family recently warned, that the misguided movement may be harmful to Margera’s mental health. Taking to the ex-pro skaters’ Instagram, Margera’s family issued a statement to fans sharing the hashtag, writing, “It’s no secret that Bam has struggled with mental health and addiction. You’ve watched Bam grow up and supported him through his ups and downs.”

They continued, “Our family has let you into the chaos that is our home, and we want nothing more than to continue this journey together. The “Free Bam” movement has caused confusion and threat to Bam and our families. Although we love sharing our lives with you, some things need to be handled privately, and treatment is one of them. Recovery is difficult and even more so under public scrutiny.” The family then clarified, “Despite rumors, Bam has never been in a conservatorship but rather a temporary healthcare guardianship for reasons not shared with the public.” Read the complete statement here.