Comedian Artie Lange was hospitalized this weekend in New Jersey, E! Online reports. The 42-year-old who rocks the airwaves as Howard Stern’s sidekick is being treated for an unknown ailment. “We can confirm that Artie is in the hospital,” his reps said in a statement. “Artie has chosen to keep all information on this matter between him and his doctor. There will be no further comment.”
It seems that Lange hasn’t been feeling up to par for a while. He’s been MIA from Stern’s satellite radio show since early December and has canceled several stand-up gigs, including a New Year’s Eve show. According to his website, all appearances through February have also been canceled.
As expected, Howard Stern commented on Lange this morning on his Sirius Satellite radio show, but did not give an update on his condition or make any official statements. Stern said that he plans to respect Lange’s family’s wishes and leave it to them to make official comments.
Lange, who is probably best known for his stint on Mad TV,has a history of substance abuse, and made headlines in 2009 for a DUI bust (for prescription sleeping pills). “We all have our demons,” Stern said of Lange’s addiction issues. “Artie has given this show tremendous moments of great comedy. He’s a tremendous contributor. He is a good man. Don’t forget how great he is.”
Best known for his stint on Mad TV? lol @ that garbage. Stern show reaches 10 times more people than Mad TV and does it 4-5 times a week for 5 hours a day all year round. Mad TV aired 1 hour a week for a limited number of episodes a year.
i love artie as a american icon agood friend to all we are one big family when you hurt we all hurt iam so upset please come back to the seen art love will heal all wounds be strong in heart it holds presciuos air and we all hold you dear also god speed