08 August,2026 03:03 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
John Draper and Reese Witherspoon (picture via X)
Reese Witherspoon's 84-year-old father, John Draper Witherspoon, was rushed to a hospital after he was found near the pool at his Nashville home. The incident reportedly took place on Friday, August 7, when a resident spotted him lying face down near the pool area of his condominium and alerted the building staff.
According to reports, the resident noticed John from a balcony and immediately informed the building's management. Staff members rushed to the scene, where they found him conscious and sought medical assistance. He was subsequently taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Nashville Metro officials confirmed that a medical incident had taken place at the property, although they did not publicly identify the individual involved. The circumstances surrounding the incident have not been fully disclosed.
Later, Reese Witherspoon shared an update about her father's condition, reassuring concerned fans that he was doing well and receiving medical care. Reports said the actor's father was recovering following the incident.
John Draper Witherspoon has had a distinguished professional career. He is a retired otolaryngologist and previously served as a lieutenant colonel in the United States Army Reserves. He was also a practicing physician for several decades.
John and Reese's mother, Mary Elizabeth "Betty" Witherspoon, have two children, including the Hollywood actor. The couple's relationship has faced difficulties over the years. They separated in the 1990s, and their personal life later became the subject of legal controversy. However, the couple eventually reconciled and were living together again, according to reports.
Reese has generally shared more about her mother publicly than her father, although John and Betty have supported their daughter throughout her successful Hollywood career. The couple were present for several important moments in Reese's life, including the 2006 Academy Awards, when she won the Best Actress Oscar for her performance in Walk the Line. They have also supported her during other major career milestones.
The latest health scare has drawn attention because of John's age and the circumstances in which he was found. While details about what caused the incident remain limited, reports indicate that he was conscious when help arrived and was subsequently taken to hospital.
Reese, meanwhile, has reassured those concerned about her father's wellbeing. The actor has not publicly shared extensive details about the incident, and the family has largely kept the matter private as John continues to receive medical attention.
The incident comes as Reese continues to balance her busy acting and producing career with her personal and family life. For now, fans and well-wishers remain hopeful for John's continued recovery.
