14 Famous Celebrities with Sleep Apnea

Sleep is a fundamental aspect of our health, yet millions of people around the world are not getting the quality rest they need due to undiagnosed sleep apnea.

It's estimated that 22 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, with a staggering 80% of moderate to severe cases going undiagnosed. This means millions of people are living with a condition that not only affects their quality of life but can also lead to severe health consequences if left untreated.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is more than just a minor inconvenience. It is a serious health condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This can lead to fragmented sleep and lower oxygen levels in the body, increasing the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and other serious health issues. The condition can also contribute to daytime fatigue, impairing your ability to function during the day and increasing the risk of accidents.

Fortunately, there are effective treatments available for sleep apnea, with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy being the most common.

CPAP therapy involves wearing a mask over your nose and/or mouth while you sleep, which provides a continuous flow of air to keep your airways open. This simple yet effective treatment can dramatically improve sleep quality and reduce the health risks associated with sleep apnea.

There is a list of famous celebrities living with sleep apnea who have shared their stories, from sleep struggles to complete life transformations thanks to a sleep apnea diagnosis and proper treatment, helping shed light on this often-overlooked condition.

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14 Famous Celebrities with Sleep Apnea

1. Jack Black

Jack Black, the actor and musician known for his high energy on and off screen, has openly talked about his experience with sleep apnea and using CPAP therapy. Even with a demanding schedule and constant performances, he found that prioritizing quality sleep became essential for maintaining his health, focus, and stamina. By being candid about his CPAP journey, Black has helped normalize conversations around sleep apnea and shown that effective treatment can make a meaningful difference, no matter your lifestyle or career.

Black spoke about his CPAP use on Amy Poehler's "Good Hang" podcast in April 2025, calling it "a game changer" and saying he can't sleep without it [3].

Jack Black, who has spoken about using CPAP therapy for sleep apnea

2. Tyler Reddick (NASCAR Driver)

Tyler Reddick, a 13-time NASCAR Cup Series winner and 2026 Daytona 500 Champion, revealed his sleep apnea diagnosis in August 2026 after partnering with ResMed to raise awareness about the condition. For years, Reddick dismissed classic symptoms including loud snoring, morning headaches, low energy, and waking up feeling unrested, never suspecting they were signs of something more serious. After starting CPAP therapy in early 2026, he went on to make history by becoming the first driver in NASCAR Cup Series history to open a season with three consecutive victories [5] [6].

"I noticed a difference after night one of using my CPAP therapy, and it completely changed the way I approach recovery, preparation and performance," Reddick said.

His story is a powerful reminder that sleep apnea can affect even elite athletes, and that treating it can be a genuine competitive advantage.

Reddick partnered specifically through his 23XI Racing team, co-owned by Michael Jordan, and ResMed branding now appears on his No. 45 car as part of the awareness campaign [4]. Looking back, he put it plainly: "I had sleep apnea symptoms for a long time, but I didn't think it was something that could affect me." [4]

NASCAR driver Tyler Reddick, who revealed his sleep apnea diagnosis and partnered with ResMed

3. Ryan Jensen (NFL Former Player)

Ryan Jensen, a former NFL player, is among the many athletes who have dealt with sleep apnea. As a high-performance athlete, maintaining optimal health is crucial, yet sleep apnea can seriously undermine physical and mental well-being. "It really has saved my life, and it really did save my career," he said of getting diagnosed. Jensen's openness about his condition has helped to raise awareness in the sports community, where sleep disorders often go unrecognized.

Jensen was diagnosed with severe sleep apnea in 2014 after reporting that he woke up as many as 56 times an hour [7].

Former NFL player Ryan Jensen, who says a sleep apnea diagnosis saved his career

4. Shaquille O'Neal

Shaquille O'Neal, the basketball legend known for his towering presence on the court, has also faced challenges off the court due to sleep apnea. O'Neal has used his platform to speak out about the importance of getting tested for sleep apnea, particularly for individuals who experience symptoms like loud snoring and daytime fatigue. His advocacy has helped many people recognize the signs of sleep apnea and seek treatment.

O'Neal underwent an overnight sleep study at Harvard and was diagnosed with moderate obstructive sleep apnea. His "Shaq Attacks Sleep Apnea" video with Harvard and Brigham and Women's Hospital shows him being fitted with a CPAP mask [8].

Shaquille O'Neal, who advocates for sleep apnea testing

5. Rosie O'Donnell

Comedian and television personality Rosie O'Donnell has been candid about her struggles with sleep apnea. O'Donnell's diagnosis came after years of experiencing severe fatigue and sleep disturbances, which she initially dismissed as part of her busy lifestyle. Her experience underscores the importance of not ignoring the symptoms of sleep apnea and the difference proper treatment can make.

A sleep test showed she woke more than 200 times a night. Of her first night on CPAP, O'Donnell said, "I felt a difference, honestly, in one night," in a televised segment on "The View" [9].

Rosie O'Donnell, who has spoken openly about her sleep apnea

6. Quincy Jones

Quincy Jones, the legendary music producer, had a long and illustrious career, but like many others, he managed sleep apnea. Jones has highlighted how the condition has impacted his life, particularly his energy levels and focus. His story is a reminder that sleep apnea can affect anyone, regardless of their success or lifestyle.

Music producer Quincy Jones, who has managed sleep apnea

7. Brett Favre

Brett Favre, the Hall of Fame NFL quarterback, is another sports figure who has been said to have faced the challenges of sleep apnea. Favre's experience with the condition has been a wake-up call for many, particularly in the athletic community, where sleep is often overlooked as a critical component of health and performance.

NFL Hall of Famer Brett Favre, who has faced sleep apnea

8. Randy Jackson

Randy Jackson, the music producer and former judge on "American Idol," is also one of the top celebrities mentioned to have struggled with sleep apnea. Jackson, who has also dealt with weight-related health issues, has emphasized the importance of managing sleep health to improve overall health and well-being. His story resonates with many who are dealing with multiple health challenges simultaneously.

Randy Jackson, who has been vocal about managing his sleep apnea

9. William Shatner

William Shatner, the iconic actor best known for his role as Captain Kirk in "Star Trek," has also been diagnosed with sleep apnea. Shatner's openness about his condition has brought attention to sleep apnea among older adults, a group that is often at higher risk but less likely to be diagnosed.

In a 2019 post on his verified account, Shatner wrote, "My CPAP machine changed my life after I was diagnosed with sleep apnea." [10]

Actor William Shatner, who was diagnosed with sleep apnea

10. Amy Poehler

Comedian and actress Amy Poehler has shared her experiences with sleep apnea, highlighting how the condition can affect even those with seemingly boundless energy. Poehler's story is a reminder that sleep apnea can impact anyone, regardless of their age or lifestyle, and that seeking treatment is crucial for maintaining health and vitality.

Poehler wrote about being diagnosed at 40 in her memoir "Yes Please." She and Jack Black later compared CPAP notes on her "Good Hang" podcast, where she agreed it "changed my life." [3]

Amy Poehler, who has shared her experience with sleep apnea

11. Reggie White

Reggie White, the late NFL star and Hall of Famer, tragically passed away due to complications related to sleep apnea. White's untimely death at the age of 43 brought widespread attention to the potentially deadly consequences of untreated sleep disorders. His legacy continues to raise awareness about the importance of diagnosis and treatment.

White died on December 26, 2004, at age 43. Sleep apnea was cited as a likely contributing factor to the fatal cardiac arrhythmia that caused his death, alongside sarcoidosis [13]. His family later helped establish a sleep-disorders research foundation in his memory.

Late NFL star Reggie White, whose death raised awareness of untreated sleep apnea

12. Tony Robbins

Tony Robbins, the renowned motivational speaker and author, has also dealt with sleep apnea. Robbins has spoken about how the condition affected his energy and performance, emphasizing the need for proper diagnosis and treatment to maintain peak physical and mental health.

Robbins has described severe sleep apnea, with his breathing stopping roughly every 60 seconds, compounded by a deviated septum [11].

Tony Robbins, who has dealt with sleep apnea

13. Barbara Corcoran

Barbara Corcoran, a successful entrepreneur and star of "Shark Tank," has openly discussed her struggles with sleep apnea. Corcoran's experience highlights how sleep apnea can affect even the most successful and driven individuals, impacting their daily lives and business performance.

In 2023, Corcoran shared a photo of herself in a CPAP mask, joking to her husband, "Told Bill I had a surprise tonight. This isn't what he was hoping for." [12]

Shark Tank's Barbara Corcoran, who has discussed her sleep apnea

14. Joe Biden

Joe Biden, the former President of the United States, has been reported to use a CPAP machine to manage his sleep apnea. As one of the most prominent figures in the world, Biden's use of CPAP therapy underscores the importance of addressing sleep apnea, particularly for those in high-stress, demanding roles.

CPAP-strap marks were visible on his face in June 2023, and the White House confirmed he uses a CPAP machine and had disclosed his sleep-apnea history in medical reports since 2008 [15].

President Joe Biden, reported to use a CPAP machine for sleep apnea

The Risks of Living with Untreated Sleep Apnea

While these celebrities have shared their stories and sought treatment, millions of others are living with untreated sleep apnea, unaware of the risks they face. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to a host of serious health problems [2], including:

Cardiovascular disease: sleep apnea significantly increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes. The repeated drops in blood oxygen levels strain the cardiovascular system, making it more vulnerable to damage.
Diabetes: there is a strong link between sleep apnea and insulin resistance, which can lead to type 2 diabetes. Poor sleep quality also affects glucose metabolism, further increasing the risk.
Weight gain: sleep apnea is often associated with obesity, but it also contributes to weight gain. The condition disrupts the balance of hormones that regulate appetite, leading to increased hunger and cravings.
Mental health issues: chronic sleep deprivation from sleep apnea can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems. The lack of restorative sleep affects mood and cognitive function, making it difficult to cope with daily challenges.
Daytime fatigue and accidents: one of the most immediate and noticeable effects of sleep apnea is daytime fatigue. This can impair concentration, memory, and reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents at work, on the road, and in daily life.

The Role of CPAP Therapy in Managing Sleep Apnea

For those diagnosed with sleep apnea, CPAP therapy is often the first line of treatment. CPAP machines deliver a steady stream of air through a mask, keeping the airway open during sleep. This prevents the pauses in breathing that characterize sleep apnea, allowing for uninterrupted, restorative sleep.

The benefits of CPAP therapy are numerous:

Improved sleep quality
Reduced health risks
Increased energy and focus
Better mood and mental health
Enhanced quality of life

If you're ready to explore your options, our best CPAP machines guide compares today's top picks, and our roundup of the most comfortable CPAP masks can help you find a fit that actually works for you. You can also browse the full collection of CPAP machines to compare models side by side.

The Importance of Getting a Sleep Apnea Diagnosis

The stories of celebrities like Ryan Jensen, Shaquille O'Neal, and Joe Biden illustrate that sleep apnea can affect anyone, regardless of their background, lifestyle, or success. These individuals have shown that with proper diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to manage the condition and lead a healthy, fulfilling life.

However, the first step in managing sleep apnea is getting a diagnosis. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms such as loud snoring, daytime fatigue, or frequent nighttime awakenings, a convenient home sleep study can determine whether sleep apnea is present and help guide the best course of treatment.

Once you've started treatment, our guide on 8 tips for sleeping with sleep apnea and our advice on 9 tips for getting used to CPAP can help you settle into a routine that actually sticks.

A sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment can protect your health, improve your quality of life, and avoid the potentially life-threatening consequences of this condition. Just like the celebrities who have come forward with their stories, taking action against sleep apnea can be life-changing. Take the first step towards better sleep and better health today. Take a home sleep test today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which celebrities have died from sleep apnea?

NFL Hall of Famer Reggie White died in 2004 at age 43, with sleep apnea cited as a contributing factor to a fatal cardiac arrhythmia. Actress Carrie Fisher's death in 2016 also listed sleep apnea among contributing causes. Untreated sleep apnea is linked to serious cardiovascular risk, which is why diagnosis matters.

Does Jack Black have sleep apnea?

Yes. Jack Black has spoken publicly about using CPAP therapy for sleep apnea, calling his CPAP machine a game changer.

Which famous athletes have sleep apnea?

Several elite athletes have been connected to sleep apnea, including NASCAR champion Tyler Reddick, former NFL center Ryan Jensen, NBA legend Shaquille O'Neal, and the late Hall of Famer Reggie White. Sleep apnea can affect even high-performance athletes.

Are there female celebrities with sleep apnea?

Yes. Rosie O'Donnell, Amy Poehler, and Barbara Corcoran have all spoken publicly about their sleep apnea and, in several cases, their CPAP use.

Do celebrities really use CPAP machines?

Many do and say so openly, including former President Joe Biden, William Shatner, Rosie O'Donnell, Barbara Corcoran, Jack Black, and Amy Poehler. Their openness has helped normalize CPAP therapy.

Can sleep apnea be dangerous if left untreated?

Yes. Untreated sleep apnea is associated with high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and other serious health risks. Getting diagnosed and treated is important for long-term cardiovascular health.

References

1. American Sleep Apnea Association. Sleep apnea prevalence and underdiagnosis. https://www.sleepapnea.org/

2. American Academy of Sleep Medicine. "Economic Burden of Undiagnosed Sleep Apnea." 2016. https://aasm.org/economic-burden-of-undiagnosed-sleep-apnea-in-u-s-is-nearly-150b-per-year/

3. CNN. "Amy Poehler and Jack Black on CPAP" (Good Hang podcast). 2025. https://www.cnn.com/2025/04/24/entertainment/amy-poehler-jack-black-cpap-podcast

4. ResMed. "23XI Racing Driver Tyler Reddick Reveals Sleep Apnea Diagnosis." 2026. https://investor.resmed.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/429/23xi-racing-nascar-driver-tyler-reddick-reveals-sleep-apnea-diagnosis-teams-up-with-resmed-to-help-others-recognize-the-signs

5. NASCAR.com. "2026 Daytona 500 Race Recap." https://www.nascar.com/news-media/2026/02/15/nascar-cup-series-daytona-500-2026-race-recap/

6. ESPN. "Tyler Reddick Makes NASCAR History with Third Straight Win to Start the Season." 2026. https://www.espn.com/racing/nascar/story/_/id/48077281/tyler-reddick-makes-nascar-history-circuit-americas-third-straight-win-start-season

7. ABC News / Good Morning America. "NFL Star Ryan Jensen on His Sleep Apnea Diagnosis." https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/video/nfl-star-ryan-jensen-sleep-apnea-diagnosis-saved-49692646

8. American Academy of Sleep Medicine. "Shaquille O'Neal Brings Attention to Sleep Apnea and CPAP in Harvard Video." https://aasm.org/shaquille-oneal-brings-attention-to-sleep-apnea-and-cpap-in-harvard-video/

9. HME Business. "Actress Rosie O'Donnell Sheds Light on OSA." 2006. https://hme-business.com/Articles/2006/11/01/Actress-Rosie-ODonnell-Sheds-Light-on-OSA.aspx

10. William Shatner. Verified account statement on CPAP and sleep apnea. 2019. https://x.com/williamshatner/status/1135543516304510976

11. Tony Robbins. Personal disclosure of severe sleep apnea. 2023. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/officialtonyrobbins_goals-gratitude-happiness-activity-7039999147071979520-kHG8

12. People / Yahoo Entertainment. "Barbara Corcoran Shares CPAP Photo." 2023. https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/shark-tank-barbara-corcoran-funny-003406039.html

13. ESPN. "Reggie White Death; Sleep Apnea a Contributing Factor." 2004. https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=1953876

14. NPR. "Sleep Apnea Factored In Carrie Fisher's Death, Coroner Reports." 2017. https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2017/06/16/533300330/sleep-apnea-factored-in-carrie-fishers-death-coroner-reports

15. ABC News. "Biden Uses a CPAP Machine for Sleep Apnea; White House Confirmation." 2023. https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/biden-cpap-machine-deal-sleep-apnea-white-house/story?id=100449577

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Nicole Brener

CPAP Expert

Nicole is a CPAP expert with over eight years of experience in the sleep health space. She studied Nutrition Science & Policy at Tufts University and combines academic training with hands-on experience to help people better understand sleep apnea and CPAP therapy. Her passion for sleep health comes from years of working closely with CPAP users and helping them navigate their journey with confidence.

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Lilly Perez, RRT

Certified Respiratory Therapist

Certified Respiratory Therapist with 18+ years of experience in respiratory care, specializing in sleep apnea education and patient-centered therapy. Extensive background working with Durable Medical Equipment (DME) providers and clinical teams to support patients with the setup and use of CPAP, BiPAP, and other positive airway pressure (PAP) devices.For over a decade, I’ve conducted high-volume in-home and virtual consultations, educating patients on the causes and impact of sleep apnea, available treatment options, and the clinical benefits of consistent therapy use. My focus is on improving patient understanding, driving adherence, and helping individuals achieve better long-term sleep and respiratory health.

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