Actor Omar Gooding says he is recovering after a serious car accident left him hospitalized with a neck injury.
Gooding shared the update Sunday in a video posted from his hospital bed. The 49-year-old said he was involved in what he described as a “bad” crash while traveling.
He told fans he had been asleep in the back seat at the time of the collision. Doctors later diagnosed him with a serious cervical injury known as a hangman’s fracture.
“Alright, alright — there will not be a clone of me. I’m good,” Gooding said in the video. “No surgery, thank Jesus.”
The actor credited wearing a seatbelt with preventing more severe injuries. He added that he expects to recover without undergoing surgery.
Recovery Timeline and Injury Details
In a caption accompanying the video, Gooding elaborated on his condition and the expected recovery process. He said doctors advised him to plan for about three months of healing.
“Yes, I was in a bad accident. No I did not break my neck… completely,” he wrote. “Hangman’s fracture is what they call it.”
Medical experts describe a hangman’s fracture as a break in the second vertebra, often caused by high-impact trauma. The injury is commonly associated with vehicle crashes and similar incidents.
Gooding indicated he may remain hospitalized for an unspecified period while doctors monitor his condition.
Actor Addresses Pain, Urges Privacy
Despite maintaining a lighthearted tone in parts of his message, Gooding acknowledged the severity of his pain in a follow-up video.
“I don’t want none of this upbeatness to fool y’all. I’m … in a lot of pain!” he said.
He asked friends and fans to limit calls and messages as he recovers, noting that speaking and even minor movement can be difficult.
“It hurts to talk. It hurts to laugh,” he added.
Gooding also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support. He encouraged followers to reach out to loved ones and emphasized the importance of safety precautions.
The actor, known for roles in film and television including “Baby Boy,” said he hopes to resume work later this year following his recovery period.