'Refrigerator' Perry Death Hoax: NFL Legend Shoots Down Rumors in Latest Health Scare
William "Refrigerator" Perry is, in fact, alive, despite rumors of his death.
The Chicago Bears legend was rumored to be dead on Wednesday after false reports surfaced on Twitter. The 50-year-old Perry then took to the social media site himself to clear the air via his @FridgePerry72 account.
"I heard the rumors that I passed away online #SMH. Just wanted to let everyone (know) that they are not true and Im doing fine. Thanks guys!"
Perry's agent, Adam Plotkin, found out that it was all just confusion.
"I guess someone called Michael Dean and said that someone found out that someone named William Perry died, but it wasn't the Fridge," Plotkin said. "Someone from Clemson called us as well and said they had been getting a lot of calls and stuff. He is completely fine."
Like many other retired football stars, Perry has been known to be suffering from numerous health issues in recent years. According to the Chicago Tribune, he suffers from the effects of Guillain-Barre Syndrome and spent almost a half year in the hospital.
Perry's history of health issues is a reflection of a rather large-scale problem facing the NFL. Retired players are fighting for improved health coverage to offset high medical bills stemming from injuries caused during their playing days. Many players feel that they are used by the NFL during their career but kicked to the curb in retirement.
The Washington Times has reported that former Redskins and Broncos star running back Clinton Portis is the lead plaintiff in an 83-player lawsuit filed earlier this week in Florida. Portis said he played through concussions "all the time" during his career.
A new PBS Frontline Documentary, called "League of Denial," will address these issues. The documentary, which will be released Oct. 8, will feature journalists, hall of fame football players, and others who will be discussing the issue of concussions and the health effects of a sport that is deeply rooted in American culture.