"I Almost Died": Ray J Reveals Critical 25% Heart Function After Near-Fatal Health Battle
"I Almost Died": Ray J Reveals Critical 25% Heart Function After Near-Fatal Health Battle
LAS VEGAS — R&B singer and reality television mogul Ray J has delivered a chilling update to his fans following a recent hospitalization, claiming he “just almost died” and that his heart is currently functioning at only a fraction of its normal capacity.
In a series of raw, emotional social media posts and livestreams over the last 48 hours, the 45-year-old artist (born William Ray Norwood Jr.) revealed that a severe bout of pneumonia has left him with a 25% heart ejection fraction, a medical state often associated with heart failure.
The "Vegas Emergency"
The crisis began in early January when Ray J was rushed to a Las Vegas emergency room suffering from excruciating chest pains and respiratory distress. Doctors performed a series of urgent tests, including X-rays and an echocardiogram, to determine why the singer’s health was deteriorating so rapidly.
The incident marks Ray J’s second life-threatening encounter with pneumonia in recent years; he was similarly hospitalized in late 2021 with a non-COVID case of the illness that also required oxygen support.
“Just almost died!! I’m alive because of your prayers and support!!” Ray J captioned a photo on January 25, showing him visibly weakened in a hospital bed. “My heart’s only beating like 25% right now, but as long as I stay focused and keep God first, everything’s going to be all right.”
A Somber Livestream
While the singer attempted to maintain a sense of hope, a late-night livestream on 27th January took a much darker turn. Appearing visibly distressed and, at times, inebriated, Ray J suggested to viewers that his time may be limited.
"This is it for me," he told his audience, claiming that doctors had given him a grim outlook, even suggesting he had only "weeks" left to live—though these specific claims have not been verified by his medical team or family. During the stream, he praised his sister, Brandy, for "paying his bills" and being his rock throughout the ordeal.
The Toll of the "Hustle"
Friends and fans have expressed deep concern over the star’s relentless work schedule. Despite the health scare, Ray J has continued to promote his Tronix Network and various reality TV projects, including Celebrity Hitchhiker.
Medical experts warn that a 25% heart function—where the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs—requires absolute rest and strict lifestyle changes. Fans have swarmed his comments section, pleading with the "One Wish" singer to prioritize his recovery over his businesses.
“Ray J, in order to heal, you cannot be online this much,” wrote one concerned fan. “You have the resources. Hire professionals and get the rest you need. We want you here.”
Family Support
The Norwood family has remained largely private, though Ray J noted that his parents were taking him for a follow-up "check-up" today. The health crisis adds another layer of strain to a turbulent year for the star, who is also navigating a high-profile divorce from Princess Love.
As Hell’s Kitchen watches one of its most resilient stars fight for his life, the music community remains on edge, hoping that the "Raydiation" singer can pull through one more time.
