Patrick Swayze Checks Into Hospital With Pneumonia

 

Just two days after his first television interview with Barbara Walters aired, Patrick Swayze has pneumonia and has checked himself into a hospital for observation.

Swayze was forced to skip a Los Angeles press event for the Television Critics Association earlier today to talk about his new show The Beast.

Explaining his absence, A&E cable network president Robert DeBitetto revealed the 56-year-old was under observation in an California clinic.

DeBitetto told reporters:

“I just spoke with Patrick Swayze.  He checked himself into the hospital this morning for observation after coming down with pneumonia.  Anyone who has had chemotherapy will know the toll it takes on the immune system. Illness are unavoidable. Patrick is very sorry to be unable to attend and promises to promote the Beast when he is back on his feet.  He thanks everyone for the outpouring of support.”

Also at the press conference an unnamed producer on The Beast told OK! Mag:

“For him, it’s a bump in the road. We’re all wishing him well.”

Swayze’s co-star Travis Fimmel added:

“He’s fearless, an icon. I can’t say enough good things about the guy.”

The Beast premieres on January 15, 2009

~ Photo by wenn.com