Celebrities with mitochondrial disease
Although public cases are rare, the reality of mitochondrial disease affects even those in the spotlight.
Probably the most high-profile celebrity linked to mitochondrial disease is Jack Black. The Hollywood actor and comedian has publicly acknowledged a personal connection to the condition through a family member, which has inspired him to actively support the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation – a US charity dedicated to research, education and support for those affected.
Actor Chandra Wilson, best known for her role as Dr Miranda Bailey in the US medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, has a daughter who has lived with mitochondrial disease for many years. Miranda’s personal experience has driven her to raise awareness and support research into the condition. She even directed an episode of Grey’s Anatomy highlighting a patient with Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS), the condition her daughter has been diagnosed with.
Historical records also suggest that Charles Darwin, the famed naturalist and geologist, may have lived with a mitochondrial disorder resembling MELAS syndrome. Reports of chronic fatigue, vomiting, memory issues, speech difficulties and even episodes of paralysis have led some researchers to suspect he carried a mitochondrial DNA mutation that affected his adult health.
Celebrities supporting the mitochondrial disease cause
Many celebrities lend their voices and influence to support the mito community. Whether through fundraising, awareness campaigns or personal connections, their contributions are helping to shine a much-needed spotlight on mitochondrial disease.
- Josh Widdicombe – the comedian and TV presenter has supported The Lily Foundation for years, attending events and raising funds, including £20,000 through an appearance on TV game show Tipping Point: Lucky Stars.
- Jane Danson – known for her role in Coronation Street, Jane became a celebrity supporter back in 2021 after her character’s on-screen son developed mitochondrial disease, drawing real-life attention to the condition on a major scale.
- Lucy Speed – best known for her roles in Eastenders and The Bill, actor Lucy has a personal connection with our founder and CEO, Liz, and has been a patron since the inception of the charity.
- Sir Doug Turnbull – leading mitochondrial disease expert Sir Doug has worked closely with us since 2007.
- Jonathan Pearce – the well-known football commentator is Founding President and former Chairman of The Lily Foundation, as well as proud uncle to Lily.
- Kevin Day – comedian, writer and sports presenter Kevin has supported us and hosted our annual Comedy Night for years. In 2024, as part of World Mitochondrial Disease Week, he marched 63 miles from Tottenham Hotspur to Crystal Palace, raising awareness and over £7,000 for us.
- Alan Davies – a regular Comedy Night supporter, Alan also appeared on TV game show Tipping Point: Lucky Stars and hosted our 2018 Butterfly Ball.
- Jo Brand – a frequent Comedy Night performer, Jo lends her trademark humour to our cause.
- Joe Pasquale – another Comedy Night favourite with his quirky act.
- Peter Kay – as well as hosting our Lily ball, in 2018 Peter donated over £34,000 from special screenings of Car Share at Blackpool Opera House, helping to raise national awareness.
- Jamie Theakston – Jamie stunned our founder, Liz, with a £100,000 donation at our 2019 charity ball, raised through Global’s Make Some Noise campaign.
- Vic Reeves (Jim Moir) – the comedian and artist auctioned his work to raise funds through the A Brush With Comedy charity auction.
These individuals – and many others – are helping to bring mitochondrial disease into the public eye, pushing for more research, better care and stronger support for affected families.
How you can help
To learn more about mitochondrial disease, its symptoms and available treatments, visit our What is mitochondrial disease? page.
You don’t have to be a celebrity to make a difference. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Raise awareness – share our mission and help others understand mitochondrial disease.
- Fundraise – join one of our events or organise your own to support vital research.
- Donate – every contribution helps fund scientific breakthroughs and family support.
Whether you’re a household name or simply a legend in your own living room, your support matters. Together, we can fight mitochondrial disease and find hope for everyone affected.