HomeInspirational StoriesShe Was the Wife of a Famous Hollywood Actor Who Donated Her Kidney to Him, but Years Later, He Betrayed Her
She Was the Wife of a Famous Hollywood Actor Who Donated Her Kidney to Him, but Years Later, He Betrayed Her
October 15, 2024
A woman’s incredible selflessness for her renowned husband eventually led to a heartbreak that fractured their family. His choices not only broke her heart but also drove a wedge between him and their child. Discover the surprising words the woman shared after enduring the heartbreak. Read More
A well-known comedian and actor was married for almost 20 years. His wife was devoted and even made a life-changing sacrifice for him, only for her to face betrayal later on.
A photo of the actor shared on April 24, 2023 | Source: Instagram/mayanlopez
Like him, the celebrity’s now-former spouse also found her place in the entertainment world, a space where they met. The couple exchanged vows in September 1993 and, three years later, celebrated the arrival of their only child in April 1996.
The pair’s marriage was far from smooth sailing, as there were numerous personal struggles and moments of heartache. In a candid interview, the actor acknowledged that he was far from perfect during his marriage to the actress.
He battled alcohol addiction and openly confessed, “In my private life, I’m not perfect. I never have been. I’ve talked about it for years.”
He also reflected on his personal growth, stating that the version of himself who once spent time on the casino floor would soon evolve into someone focused on building a better life. He believed this transformation was the best way to care for himself without causing pain to those who cared about him.
The actor is pictured with his daughter, as seen in a post shared on April 24, 2023 | Source: Instagram/mayanlopez
In addition to his struggles with addiction, the family man also faced a serious health issue that required life-changing surgery. He discovered he had kidney disease, a condition he believed might have been preventable during his childhood.
In a July 2011 interview, he explained that he was born with narrow ureters, which made it difficult for him to drain properly and caused frequent bed-wetting as a child.
However, instead of seeking medical help, his grandmother restricted his water intake, unaware of the underlying defect. By 18, he developed hypertension, and his health continued to decline from that point onward.
“Kidney disease is not painful; I mean it is painful because it shows up in fatigue. So, you’re always tired. It misled me to think that I was tired because I was working so hard when really my kidneys were shutting down,” the movie star divulged.
The Los Angeles native’s health struggles intensified over time when he developed a congenital disorder that led to kidney failure, eventually making a kidney transplant necessary.
His then-wife made a profound decision and offered to donate one of her kidneys to save his life. When speaking on her heartfelt choice, she said, “It’s amazing to be able to help another human being in this way. You’re giving the gift of life.”
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The duo pictured kissing at the AFI Film Festival screening of “Innocent Voices” on November 6 2004, in Hollywood, Los Angeles. | Source: Getty Images
Meanwhile, her then-husband shared, “I think it was a miracle that my wife’s kidney could be used. Now I value each day because I don’t know how long this organ will hold out.”
The comedian used a pseudonym when he arrived at the hospital for privacy under the guise of a “Tom Ace” alias. The evening after the surgery, their daughter visited them at the hospital but could only see her mother instead.
After the operation, his wife, who is also a producer, revealed that having one kidney didn’t make her feel any different. People can live with just one kidney because each typically operates at 50 percent. If one is removed, the remaining kidney adjusts to function at full capacity.
The family pictured on the set of “The George Lopez Show,” 2006 | Source: Getty Images
Following the procedure, her then-husband felt better than ever and recovered steadily. Once his body showed no signs of rejecting the kidney, the family knew the surgery had been a success. Just three weeks later, he was even back to enjoying his favorite game, golf.
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The actor at the Kennedy Center for the 6th Annual Mark Twain Prize on May 2, 2001, in Washington, D.C. | Source: Getty Images
Mayan also questioned her parents about whether they still loved each other. Her mother responded, “Yeah, I love you,” while glancing at George. She admitted, “He’s the father of my child, he’s my husband, and he’s my friend,” as she rested her head on his shoulder.
Despite their painful past, Ann and George Lopez maintain a strong bond as they co-parent and support one another. Their story is a testament to resilience, forgiveness, and the enduring power of family love.
