Bodybuilding legend Lee Haney has responded to rumors that he died — but revealed that he does have an urgent health need.
In an Instagram post, the eight-time Mr. Olympia told his followers, “I am alive and well. It’s appalling to see how fast rumors can spread.”
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This post came a day after his children Joshua and Olympia shared a collaborative post announcing that their father needs a kidney donor. “26 years ago I was told I would eventually need a kidney transplant,” the post read. “Through faith, proper nutrition, and exercise, I was able to delay it for many years. Now my kidney is failing, and I’m prayerfully hoping to find a living donor.”
The post contained a link and QR code for prospective donors.
The comments were filled with support and well-wishes. “Everyone is saying ‘praying for your dad’ but no one is asking what his blood type is,” one commenter wrote. “I’ll give Lee Haney a Kidney, let’s go!!”
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Haney’s son urged any interested party to fill out the questionnaire regardless of their blood type. “It filters us applicants,” he explained, “as of now they ask for those interested to apply.”
In his newest post, Haney thanked his fans for their support and assured them that he is in good spirits. “Many of you have sent prayers my way and I appreciate them deeply,” he wrote. “My approach is to be proactive as I face this current challenge. My faith in the Lord has always been my super power.”
He added, “I am still well and fully functional. I’m not needed in heaven at the time.”
Haney is widely considered one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time. In 1998, President Bill Clinton appointed him to the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. He was inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame in 2014.
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This story was originally published by Men’s Journal on Mar 24, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men’s Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
