Bob Harper Reflects on Heart Attack and Relationship with Jillian Michaels

Bob Harper revealed he didn’t hear from Gillian Michaels following his heart attack in 2017. In a recent interview, the 59-year-old trainer mentioned that while many former contestants from “The Biggest Loser” reached out to him during that time, Michaels, aged 51, did not.

“We weren’t the best of friends, but we did work together for a long time,” he noted, suggesting that her silence “speaks volumes.” Harper added that he doesn’t expect Michaels to act against her own will.

Harper and Michaels had a long partnership on “The Biggest Loser,” spanning 12 seasons from 2004 to 2013. While Michaels departed after the 15th season, Harper continued as a trainer and stepped in as host for the final two seasons.

Reflecting on their past, Harper expressed in 2020 that he felt the absence of his former co-star. Following his heart attack, Michaels attributed some responsibility to his diet and fitness habits, stating, “I know a bit about Bob and he has a family history.” She also remarked on his intense workout routines, implying that they might not be ideal for someone with his genetic background.

Harper, who experienced a heart attack while working out in February 2017, received immediate CPR from a doctor at the gym and later spent eight days in the hospital recuperating. He described the incident as a wake-up call, making it difficult for him to manage his health and mobility afterward.

This year, Harper shared that he has completely overhauled his exercise routine since the heart attack, now focusing predominantly on yoga, as it felt more manageable. He admitted that for a significant period afterward, he struggled with trusting his heart health.