Matt King, the actor best known for his role as Super Hans in the British sitcom Peep Show, has revealed that he was left temporarily paralysed after suffering a rare stroke of the spinal cord. The 58-year-old shared the news on social media, explaining that the frightening incident occurred earlier this week.
Details of the Medical Emergency
In his post, King wrote: 'It's true. I had a rare stroke of the spinal cord on Sunday. I was initially paralysed but was rushed to The Royal Sussex and the staff have been amazing.' He added that he has since regained some movement, although recovery is ongoing. 'Can walk again, a bit. My legs were jelly, man. It didn't feel f***ing brilliant. Thank you for all the love and kindness.'
Understanding Spinal Cord Strokes
According to the Cleveland Clinic, a spinal stroke is a type of stroke that stops blood flow in the spinal cord. Most strokes occur when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked by a clot or ruptures and bleeds. However, in spinal strokes, the blockage or hemorrhage happens in the spinal cord. These strokes are very rare, accounting for less than 1% of all strokes, but they can be fatal or cause permanent disabilities.
King's Career Beyond Peep Show
Beyond his iconic role in Peep Show, King has built a varied career across television. He appeared in the series Look Around You and in the third series of Skins, playing Cook's father. He is also a DJ and comedian, having starred in his own sketch shows on stages across the UK and often performing DJ sets, sometimes in character as Super Hans.
Hope for a Peep Show Reunion
Last year, King expressed hope for a one-off Peep Show reunion. He told The Sun TVBiz column: 'When it ended in 2015, writers Sam and Jesse said to us: We'll see you in ten years. We're going to write a one-off. I did ask them six months ago. They said: We still would be interested, but we're just so busy, we can't do a ten-year one. I feel like it will happen.'
Fan Support
Fans have flooded King's post with messages of support following the update. One wrote: 'Get right soon mate, sounds nasty, get a bit of Peep Show on whilst your recuperating !! guaranteed to cheer you up !!' Another added: 'All the best and take it easy legend.'
