What Happened to Lil Nas X? The Reason Behind His Hospitalization for Face Paralysis

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​On April 14, 2025, Grammy-winning artist Lil Nas X alarmed fans by sharing a video from a hospital bed, revealing he had lost control of the right side of his face. In the Instagram clip, the 26-year-old musician attempted to smile, but only the left side of his face responded. He expressed frustration and disbelief over his condition, captioning the post: «Soooo lost control of the right side of my face 😭.»

The video quickly garnered attention, with fans and fellow celebrities expressing concern and sending well-wishes. Actresses Taraji P. Henson and Wanda Sykes were among those who reached out with supportive messages. Shortly after, Lil Nas X reassured his followers through an Instagram story, stating, «Guys I am OK!! Stop being sad for me!» He added that he might look «funny» for a while but was otherwise fine, maintaining his characteristic humor and positivity.

 

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What Caused Lil Nas X’s Paralysis?

As of now, no official diagnosis has been shared regarding the cause of the paralysis, leaving fans concerned and curious. Many have speculated that it could be related to Bell’s Palsy, a temporary nerve condition that causes weakness or paralysis on one side of the face. Others have suggested the possibility of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (in fact, fans have drawn comparisons to Justin Bieber’s past incident back in 2022), a rare complication of shingles that affects the facial nerve near the ear and can lead to additional symptoms like tinnitus or hearing loss.

• Bell’s Palsy is often linked to viral infections that cause inflammation of the facial nerve, which controls movement on one side of the face. The most commonly suspected culprit is the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1)—the same virus that causes cold sores. However, other viruses such as influenza, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and cytomegalovirus (CMV) have also been associated with Bell’s Palsy. When the facial nerve becomes inflamed and compressed, it can result in sudden weakness or paralysis, usually affecting only one side of the face. The condition is typically temporary, and many people recover fully with time and treatment.

@justinbieberIMPORTANT PLEASE WATCH. I love you guys and keep me in your prayers♬ original sound – Justin Bieber

• Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, on the other hand, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox and shingles. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate years later as shingles. If the reactivation affects the facial nerve near the ear, it can lead to this syndrome. This condition not only causes facial paralysis but can also trigger painful ear symptoms, a rash near or inside the ear, and hearing issues like tinnitus or even temporary hearing loss. Recovery varies depending on how quickly treatment begins and how severely the nerve is affected.

However, until further details are confirmed, the exact reason behind his condition remains unknown.

Lil Nas X, born Montero Lamar Hill, first rose to fame in 2019 with his hit «Old Town Road.» He has since been recognized for his innovative contributions to music and his openness about personal struggles, including past battles with depression. ​

Fans and the music community continue to send their support as they await further updates on his health.