Additional Coverage:
- ‘Modern Family’ star Eric Stonestreet reveals he’s been taking Mounjaro for type 2 diabetes since 2022. It has changed his life in 2 ways. (businessinsider.com)
“Modern Family” star Eric Stonestreet reveals type 2 diabetes diagnosis and credits Mounjaro for positive changes
Emmy-winning actor Eric Stonestreet, best known for his role as Cam on the hit sitcom “Modern Family,” has publicly revealed his type 2 diabetes diagnosis for the first time. In an exclusive interview, Stonestreet shared his journey with the condition and how the medication Mounjaro, a GLP-1 agonist similar to Ozempic, has significantly impacted his health.
Stonestreet, 53, explained that he received his diagnosis in 2009, the same year he landed his breakout role on “Modern Family.” However, shame and embarrassment kept him from sharing his diagnosis publicly for years. He admitted to struggling with his weight, recalling feeling like “a fat or overweight kid” even when looking back at photos of himself at a healthier size.
The actor described his initial denial after the diagnosis, acknowledging that he took some basic treatments but avoided discussing his condition with others. He attributed his reluctance to a fear of judgment and the misconception that type 2 diabetes only affects individuals with larger bodies. Now, Stonestreet aims to break down these stigmas and encourage open conversations about the condition.
The turning point came when Stonestreet’s father was diagnosed with leukemia, prompting a more open dialogue about health within his family. This led him to confide in his parents about his own diagnosis, and later he learned that two of his cousins also have type 2 diabetes. These experiences solidified his desire to raise awareness and normalize discussions about the condition.
Stonestreet praised Mounjaro for helping him control his blood sugar levels, bringing his A1C down to pre-diabetic numbers. He emphasized that the medication’s effectiveness motivated him to embrace a healthier lifestyle, incorporating regular exercise, primarily walking, and mindful eating habits. He also noted that he’s been fortunate to avoid common side effects associated with the medication.
While acknowledging the medication’s impact, Stonestreet stressed the importance of adopting a holistic approach to health. He likened managing his glucose levels to a game, constantly monitoring and adjusting as needed. He advocates for setting realistic expectations and making gradual changes rather than striving for unattainable goals.
Stonestreet hopes that by sharing his story, he can inspire others to talk more openly about type 2 diabetes and encourage a more supportive and understanding environment for those living with the condition.