[Warning: Potentially Triggering Content]
Carrot Top has been hospitalized in Las Vegas following a reported suicide attempt — a deeply troubling development involving the longtime comedian and Vegas headliner.
Sources familiar with the situation told TMZ on Friday night that the performer, whose real name is Scott Thompson, attempted suicide earlier in the day in the Vegas area and was rushed to a local hospital, where he now remains. His scheduled Friday night performance at the Luxor was subsequently canceled.
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His representative, Jami Schlicher, also confirmed the issue to the news outlet on Friday night, saying:
“Mr. Thompson is recovering in the hospital and is receiving the care and support he needs. His family and those closest to him are deeply grateful for the concern, prayers and respectfully ask for privacy.”
Of course, Carrot Top has spent decades entertaining audiences with his distinctive prop comedy, trademark red hair and elaborate stage productions. His Luxor shows have made him one of the most recognizable fixtures — with one of the longest-running residencies — on the Las Vegas Strip.
There is also a separate legal matter surrounding Thompson that has been reported in connection with the timing of this particular crisis.
Parade Magazine reported on Saturday morning that a young accuser apparently filed a sworn declaration in Florida earlier this week containing serious allegations against Thompson. The filing reportedly included screenshots of inappropriate text messages and a $15 million damages estimate.
According to Parade, Defazio’s legal team had previously proposed a confidential $7.5 million settlement. Thompson has apparently not admitted liability, FYI, and those civil allegations remain disputed.
For now, Thompson’s family is asking for privacy as he receives medical care.
If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, help is available. Consider contacting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, by calling, texting, or chatting, or go to 988lifeline.org.
[Image via MEGA/WENN]
