George Clooney Skips Venice Film Festival Due To Sudden Illness

George Clooney has temporarily pulled out of the 2025 Venice Film Festival, sparking concern after failing to make several appearances in the lead-up to the premiere of his latest film, Jay Kelly. The actor, who appears opposite Adam Sandler and Riley Keough in Noah Baumbach's new film, had been conspicuously missing from the festival's various activities on August 27 due to a "bad sinus infection," his rep said.

One noticeable absence, however, was Clooney's, as the press conference for Jay Kelly proceeded without the 64-year-old actor's presence. The sources at the festival said that Clooney, who fell ill and has been advised to rest with his feet up and icing on, between "dusk 'til dawn", will ensure he is "cantering around" in time for the world premiere on August 28. His fellow actors were understanding of the hole his absence would leave in the festival schedule. Adam Sandler, widely recognized for his comedy, joked on social media, "Even movie stars get sick." The comedian reminded fans that Clooney may be a Hollywood legend, but he is human. For her part, Laura Dern revealed that if George can't make the premiere, she'd be "heartbroken."

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Clooney's health update comes a few days after he and his wife, human rights lawyer Amal Clooney, touched down in Venice on August 26. The pair waved from their boat, accompanied by 8-year-old twins Ella and Alexander, their faces glowing in the warm Italian sun alongside other festival-goers. Though the Clooneys looked in good form during their public appearance, George's surprise illness is a reminder that even the most accomplished of performers can unexpectedly fall victim to health problems. Fans and followers of the festival are tuning in to see if Clooney will attend the Jay Kelly premiere.

With the movie already a buzzy title due to its star-studded cast and Noah Baumbach's writer-director credentials, it'll be another step for Clooney's harassed leading man. If he does show, it will be a massive relief for fans who have been hoping to see him on the red carpet in Venice. George Clooney's health is "top priority" for now, with his team recommending him to rest and take caution. When the first Venice Film Festival star-studded gala opens the proceedings, George Clooney's absence will be felt by all, and the fans will likely hope for a fast return and a triumphant appearance at the premiere if and when that day comes.