7 Famous Individuals Who Suffered From Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is a condition that often goes unnoticed, as it is not visible like many of the other ailments. However, the loss causes much hindrance for people to lead a normal life. In addition, many people lose hope of achieving their dreams as well; however, they shouldn’t give up so soon. There are several people who suffered from hearing loss yet overcame it to achieve success in their life. Here is a list of seven popular celebs who suffered from hearing loss but still made it big.

1. Ludwig Van Beethoven

Many people will be surprised to know that one of the most celebrated music composers of all time, whose compositions are a timeless piece of art, was actually suffering from hearing loss. Beethoven started losing his hearing at the age of 26. He also suffered from tinnitus (ringing in the ears). The cause of his hearing loss is largely unknown; however, it is speculated that hearing loss could be a result of lead poisoning, lesion of the inner ear or illness. He used ear horns to aid him with hearing during the initial stage of his hearing loss.  

Beethoven lost his hearing completely in a few years after his diagnosis. At the premiere of his ninth symphony, Beethoven was unable to hear the applause of the audience and someone had to turn him around to witness it.  

2. Halle Berry

Halle Berry, an Oscar winner actress, suffers from 80 percent hearing loss in her left ear. Berry, about twenty years ago, was a victim of domestic violence. Her boyfriend struck her repeatedly on her head over some domestic issue. Due to this, she lost her ability to hear in the left ear. She is now an active supporter of women suffering from domestic violence and is often seen speaking out to them to break the cycle of violence.  

3. Stephen Colbert

You must have laughed at his jokes a dozen of times but what most people do not know is that Colbert is deaf in the right ear.  

Colbert had developed a tumor in his right ear while he was young. In order to remove it, the doctors had to remove his ear drum as well. Since then, Colbert is unable to hear from his right ear.  

4. Jodie Foster

Academy award winner actress Jodie Foster also suffers from hearing loss. In one of her interviews few years ago, she confessed that she was diagnosed with hearing loss. She is often spotted wearing a hearing aid as well.  

5. William Shatner

Most famous for his iconic role as Captain Kirk in Star Trek, William Shatner suffers from Tinnitus. On one of the sets of Star Trek, Shatner was caught in an explosive incident. From there onwards, there was an onset of Tinnitus. In addition, Shatner has joined American Tinnitus Association and is very vocal about his support for people suffering from Tinnitus and hearing loss.  

6. Eric Clapton

One of the most famous guitarists of all time, Eric Clapton developed hearing loss due to excessive exposure to loud music during his concerts.   

7. Rob Lowe

Hollywood star Rob Lowe has a hearing loss since he was eight or nine months old. It was caused due to undiagnosed mumps. Moreover, the star has difficulty hearing in public places such as restaurants, parks, and bars.  

Hearing loss doesn’t have to hold you back. Visit a hearing care provider in your area to ensure you’re hearing is in optimal shape!