Billy Bob Thornton Discusses Rare Blood Type and Strict Dietary Requirements

Billy Bob Thornton has opened up about the health challenges that shape his daily life, particularly a rare blood type that dictates what he can and cannot eat.

During an appearance on Howie Mandel's podcast Howie Mandel Does Stuff, the 70-year-old actor discussed his "very restricted" diet and the medical reasons behind it. Thornton revealed that he carries AB-negative blood, described as the rarest blood type in the world, with fewer than 1% of the global population having it. According to the American Red Cross, this blood type is the least common among Americans as well.

The actor explained that his blood type comes with specific physiological consequences. "It means you have less digestive enzymes. That's one of the things that goes along with it," Thornton shared on the show. Beyond the blood type itself, he is allergic to wheat and dairy, further narrowing his food options.

Thornton reflected on how long it took him to understand his condition. Growing up, he said he simply assumed his post-meal discomfort was universal. "I just assumed everybody felt like s— after they ate. I didn't know," he recalled. "But anyway, I can't have dairy, wheat… can't eat meat, like, you know, pork or beef or any of that stuff."

The Landman star noted that he developed numerous allergies throughout his childhood but didn't recognize them as unusual at the time, instead eating whatever was available despite the physical toll it took.

In other news, Thornton's series Landman has already secured a renewal for a third season, with casting decisions having been made following the season two finale.