Julie Bowen Shares Pacemaker Journey on Podcast

Julie Bowen, best known for her role on Modern Family, revealed during a recent podcast with host Michael Rosenbaum that she received a pacemaker at just 29 years old.

The 55-year-old actress opened up about her battle with sick sinus syndrome, a condition that can cause a “slow heartbeat, pause, or irregular heartbeat.” Bowen explained that her low resting heart rate was a concern; it had previously dropped to the 30s before the pacemaker, which now ensures she maintains a heart rate above 45.

As she reflected on her past, Bowen noted that she was an avid runner in high school. She had always maintained a low heart rate, which led to her sister—who was in medical school at the time—raising alarms. “We were on vacation, and she insisted on listening to my heart. After doing so, she recommended I see a cardiologist immediately,” Bowen recalled.

Despite her sister’s concerns, Bowen initially brushed it off, claiming she felt fine. However, after shooting the pilot for the 2000 TV series Ed, she found herself needing that pacemaker right away. “I was terrified, thinking my life was over. I was only 29,” she shared.

During the podcast, Rosenbaum pointed out how fortunate she was to have learned about her condition. Bowen recalled feeling a strange sensation at times, describing it as holding her breath while relaxing and enjoying movies. “They warned me that I could faint while driving and potentially hurt someone,” she said, expressing the gravity of her situation. “So, I thought, well, I definitely need a pacemaker.”

Interestingly, Bowen mentioned that her surgeon approached the procedure through her armpits, and she has since changed the battery of her pacemaker about three times. “Sometimes I even forget it’s there,” she admitted, almost humorously.