Aida Turturro Reveals She Nearly Died from Heart Attack, Underwent Emergency Bypass Surgery

Aida Turturro, best known for her role as Janice Soprano on HBO's acclaimed series, is sharing the harrowing details of a health crisis that could have cost her life.

The 63-year-old actress recently appeared on the "MeSsy" podcast alongside Jamie-Lynn Sigler and Christina Applegate, where she discussed the cardiac event that changed her perspective on health and self-care.

Turturro explained that she had been experiencing chest discomfort over an extended period. Initially, she attributed the symptoms to a hiatal hernia, which can produce similar sensations to a heart attack. When a friend suggested calling an ambulance, she declined, convinced she was fine. She got into her car and headed home, but decided to seek medical advice after her cousin provided her with his doctor's contact information.

"He's like, 'It sounds like you might need to go to a cardiologist,'" Turturro recalled during the podcast. When she visited the cardiologist, the diagnosis was sobering: she had already suffered a heart attack.

Testing revealed she had approximately 90% blockage, and she was immediately admitted to the hospital for an emergency quadruple bypass surgery.

"I could've died, I should've died then, but I didn't," she reflected on the experience.

The actress emphasized the importance of prioritizing personal health and surrounding oneself with supportive people. "It's all in your brain. I learned my lessons, you have to take care of yourself," she said. She stressed that maintaining one's own well-being is essential for being able to help loved ones, urging people to make health a family priority.

Since the surgery, Turturro has made significant lifestyle changes, losing 80 pounds through dietary adjustments and increased physical activity.