Billy Porter is easing back into the public eye with gratitude, honesty, and a hopeful update after a serious health scare that kept him out of the spotlight for months.

The Tony Award winner revealed this week that he’s been recovering from a severe case of sepsis, sharing that he was hospitalized earlier this fall after becoming critically ill. 

Sitting calmly in a living room, Porter opened his message by sending love across the board for the holiday season, acknowledging Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, and everything in between before addressing his recent absence.

Over the past few months, the “Pose" star said his health took a sudden turn that required immediate medical attention. 

He explained that doctors diagnosed him with urosepsis, a serious condition that develops when a urinary tract infection goes untreated or isn’t fully addressed.

In those cases, bacteria can spread from the lower urinary tract through the kidneys and into the bloodstream, overwhelming the body’s ability to fight it off.

“It’s been a very, very challenging four months,” Porter shared, noting that while he isn’t fully back to himself yet, he’s steadily improving. 

“I want everybody to know that I am on the road to a full recovery.”

Urosepsis can develop when bacteria that normally inhabit the urinary tract multiply to dangerous levels, according to the Cleveland Clinic.  

While women and older adults face a higher risk, factors like having a urinary catheter, chronic or recurring UTIs, bladder infections, recent surgeries involving catheters, diabetes, immune system disorders, or weakened immunity from chemotherapy or organ transplants can all increase the likelihood of developing the condition. Difficulty fully emptying the bladder can also contribute to risk.

As he reflected on the experience, Porter became emotional while acknowledging the support he received throughout his hospitalization and recovery. 

The prayers, messages, and well wishes, he said, carried him through the most challenging moments. 

“I felt every single one of them,” he shared.

Doctors stress that urosepsis is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. 

If not addressed quickly, it can lead to severe complications, including organ damage, organ failure, septic shock, and, in the most serious cases, death. Treatment often involves hospitalization, antibiotics, IV fluids, and close monitoring.

Now focused on healing and moving forward, the singer’s update serves as both reassurance and a reminder of how quickly health can change. 

As he continues his recovery, the actor made it clear that he’s grateful to be here still, surrounded by love, and taking things one day at a time.

You can watch his video addressing his updates below.