While filming in Dublin, Ireland, last month, Robert Pattinson stepped out for a casual stroll with one of his co-stars. After a few minutes, he returned to the set with a smile and a twinkle in his eye. Unfortunately, that twinkle was soon wiped clean off his face as he shared the tragic news that his days as a functioning adult were now behind him. The actor has since been admitted to a London hospital to battle the effects of a severe upper respiratory tract infection. It is heartbreaking to think about what has been lost for this industry icon. Who knows when (or if) he will return to work?
The news of Rob’s health scare made headlines around the world and stoked fears of an HIV pandemic. Is Rob really the victim of a public-health emergency or was it just a case of pneumonia?
It turns out that the “pneumonia scare” was more of a ruse to get Rob into hospital for treatment. In a candid interview with the U.K.’s Daily Mail, Rob dismissed the idea that he was at risk of contracting HIV. “I really don’t think I am,” he said. “I’m not even sure anyone in the cast is. We don’t really understand the situation. The whole thing is a bit scary, to tell you the truth.” He later clarified: “I don’t want to sound like I’m scared, but I don’t want to put myself in a situation where I could contract something.”
While Rob is undoubtedly one of the world’s most handsome men, his cavalier attitude towards his health comes as a bit of a surprise. For years, the actor has been plagued by insecurities about his body. In 2014, Rob admitted that he spends three hours a day in the mirror trying to make sure that he looks just right. In a 2016 magazine interview, Rob said that he worried about his body image every day and even considered suicide. Since Rob’s health scare, people have been left wondering how much longer they should wait to start having safe sex. Luckily for lovers and thrill-seekers, the answer is… probably not long at all.
Why Aren’t We Confident That Rob Is HIV-Free?
With all the rumors and scare-mongering that surrounded the news of Rob’s hospitalization, it’s important to remember why we should not be too quick to assume the worst. First off, let’s remember that Rob is an incredibly famous and protected entity. Despite his health concerns, Rob can walk the streets of Hollywood without fear of being accosted. Even better, Rob has a legion of famous friends who are always willing to step in and shield him from harm. Second, and probably more importantly, it is important to remember that we do not really know for sure whether or not Rob is infected with HIV. As the Daily Mail shares, it is quite likely that Rob’s illness was simply a case of pneumonia, which is not a death sentence, but it can certainly put a damper on your day. In any case, it is heart-breaking to see such a beautiful and talented man struggle with such insecurities. While we wait for news about his health, let’s enjoy some of Rob’s best work.
Is It Suitable To Celebrate Now?
With all the uncertainty surrounding Rob’s health, is it now appropriate to start celebrating? Of course, it is. While we wait for news about Rob’s condition, let’s take this opportunity to reflect on all the marvelous things he’s given us over the years. From his dazzling smile to his boyish charm, Rob’s got a lot to offer. To borrow a phrase from a different time and culture, Rob has been a breath of fresh air for those of us whose lives have been touched by the film industry. And, of course, there’s the fantastic music. In the words of another famous man, Bob Dylan, “The times they are a-changing.” Let’s embrace that and start celebrating the legacy that is Robert Pattinson.