County legend Porter Wagoner has been hospitalized in serious condition for an undisclosed illness. His publicist, Darlene Bieber, said the 80-year-old Wagoner is asking for prayers from friends and fans. The country star had marked his 50th anniversary with the Grand Ole Opry in May of this year. He was previously hospitalized in July 2006 with a stomach aneurism.
Porter is probably best known for his trademark rhinestone suits and for helping a then unknown Dolly Parton get her career started in 1967. Porter saw a recent upsurge in his career when he signed with ANTI-records and was the opening act for the White Stripes at their sold out Madison Square Garden show this summer. His latest album “Wagonmaster,” released earlier this year, earned great reviews.
Also ailing is funnyman John Goodman. Word is out that Goodman has left rehab for an undisclosed condition. While people are concerned about Goodman’s health, the real shocker is apparently no one knew he was in rehab. He left Promise Treatment Center in Malibu, California on Wednesday, releasing a statement that said, “For my family and myself, I voluntarily took the necessary steps to remain sober the rest of my life.”
Goodman is remembered primarily for his role as Roseanne’s husband Dan in the long running sitcom. But, he won an Emmy earlier this year for playing Judge Robert Bebe on “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip.”
Another funnyman receiving good news is newlywed John C. McGinley, who plays Dr. Perry Cox on “Scrubs.” The actor just announced that he and second wife Nicole Kessler are having a girl, due February 2. McGinley has a 10-year-old son Max from his first marriage to Lauren Lambert. “I’ve always wanted to surround Max with brothers and sisters and that’s what we’re going to do!” McGinley said. The couple married in April.