Evangeline Lilly, known for her role in the *Ant-Man* franchise, has disclosed that she is experiencing brain damage following an accident in Hawaii last year. In a heartfelt update shared on her Instagram account, Lilly detailed the circumstances surrounding her condition and her ongoing recovery process.
On May 30, 2025, Lilly described how she fainted at a beach in Hawaii and subsequently struck her head on a boulder during the fall. This incident led to a diagnosis of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Recently, she provided further insights into her health status, confirming the severity of her situation.
“It’s late on January 1, 2026, and I’m entering into this new year, the year of the horse, with some bad news about my concussion,” Lilly stated in her Instagram video. “A lot of you asked how I’m doing. A lot of you have inquired about the brain scans that you heard I got.”
In this update, Lilly revealed that the results from her scans indicated decreased functionality across multiple areas of her brain. “So, I do have brain damage from the TBI, and possibly other factors going on,” she explained. As she embarks on her recovery journey, she emphasized the importance of seeking the right medical guidance.
Reflecting on her diagnosis, Lilly noted that her cognitive decline since the accident prompted her to slow down and re-evaluate her life. “My cognitive decline since I smashed my face open has helped me to slow down and helped me to have a more restful finish to my 2025,” she shared. “I think this was the calmest, most restful Christmas holiday I have had, maybe since I had children, so 14 years ago. So that’s a good thing.”
Despite the challenges she faces, Lilly expressed gratitude for her life experiences. “Feeling extraordinarily grateful and blessed to be able to play one more day and one more year on this beautiful living planet. And that is my concussion update. Thank you all for caring,” she concluded.
In a prior announcement, Lilly had shared her decision to take a break from Hollywood in 2024. This hiatus followed her performance in *Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania* (2023), marking it as her final role before stepping away from the industry.
As Lilly navigates her recovery journey, her updates resonate with many who have experienced similar health challenges, showcasing resilience and a commitment to healing.
