The Wanted’s Max George Reveals He Underwent Second Heart Surgery: ‘A Pretty Rough Time’

Max George Opens Up About His Recent Heart Surgery and Road to Recovery

Max George, the 36-year-old singer from the British boyband The Wanted, has recently shared an update about his health journey, revealing that he underwent a second heart surgery after having a pacemaker fitted in December 2024. Taking to Instagram on Monday, February 17, George opened up about the challenges he’s been facing, calling it a “setback” but expressing optimism about his recovery.

According to George, the initial pacemaker procedure was intended to address heart issues that were discovered during his hospital stay over Christmas. However, the singer soon experienced unexpected complications. A few weeks after the procedure, George began noticing concerning physical symptoms in his chest, which led him to return to the hospital. Doctors discovered that one of the leads from the pacemaker had been placed too far into his heart, requiring a second surgery to correct the issue. Fortunately, the procedure was successful and lasted about two hours. George lightened the mood by sharing that he was allowed to listen to Oasis music during the surgery, a small but uplifting detail that brought some normalcy to an otherwise stressful experience.

George reassured his concerned fans that while the complications have been challenging, he is now on the path to recovery. He explained that he has been undergoing numerous tests to ensure everything is functioning properly and that it may take several weeks or even months for the inflammation in his heart, known as myocarditis, to subside. Despite the setbacks, George remains positive, asserting that he will be back to his best form soon. He also took a moment to express his gratitude to fans and loved ones for their support during this difficult time, emphasizing how much their kind messages have meant to him.

A Closer Look at the Complications and George’s Health Journey

In an interview with The Sun, George provided more details about the events leading up to his second surgery. He revealed that after the initial pacemaker procedure, he experienced persistent and worsening symptoms, including a flickering sensation in his chest that gradually intensified. George described how his heart rate would spike, causing shocks in his heart that made him jump uncontrollably. The unsettling physical reactions, combined with the constant chest tremors, left him understandably alarmed and seeking medical intervention once again.

Reflecting on his overall health journey, George has been open about the severity of his condition. In recent months, he shared a particularly harrowing experience where he woke up with freezing blue hands and felt his throat closing up. At the time, he was staying with his mother, who quickly recognized the seriousness of the situation and played a crucial role in saving his life. George emotionally recalled feeling as though someone had their hands around his neck, leaving him unable to move his arms or breathe properly. The fear of losing his life was so real that he even took the steps to write a will before undergoing the pacemaker procedure.

The singer described the profound sense of relief he felt after the initial surgery. “I was like, ‘Holy s—, I feel alive again,’” he shared, highlighting the stark contrast between the terror of his health crisis and the renewed sense of hope that followed. George also shared a touching moment with his girlfriend, Maisie Smith, who stayed by his side during his recovery. Despite the physical limitations of his surgery, the couple managed to find comfort in each other’s presence, cuddling and discussing football as if everything were normal. George even admitted to feeling “butterflies” again, a sweet reminder of life’s simple joys.

Max George’s Personal Life and Relationships

Max George’s road to recovery has been made easier by the unwavering support of his loved ones, particularly his girlfriend, Maisie Smith. The couple began dating in 2022, and their relationship has been a source of strength for George during his health challenges. Smith, a 23-year-old actress and former child star, is best known for her role on the BBC soap EastEnders. She also made headlines in 2022 as the runner-up on the U.K.’s Strictly Come Dancing, the British equivalent of Dancing With the Stars.

Before his current relationship, George’s romantic life has been well-documented in the media. In 2010, he dated actress Michelle Keegan, who is set to star in the upcoming film Fool Me Once. He later had a high-profile romance with actress Lindsay Lohan in 2012 and was also linked to model Nina Agdal in 2013. Thesepast relationships, along with his time in the spotlight as a member of The Wanted, have made George a recognizable and beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

The Legacy of The Wanted and Tom Parker’s Tragic Passing

Max George first rose to fame as a member of the British boyband The Wanted, which enjoyed significant success in the early 2010s. The group, formed in 2009, went on to achieve 10 U.K. Top 10 hits before disbanding in 2014. However, in 2021, the band reunited under heartbreaking circumstances. The reunion was inspired by the cancer diagnosis of bandmate Tom Parker, who had been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. Tragically, Parker passed away in March 2022 at the age of 33, leaving his fans and former bandmates in mourning. The reunion served as a poignant reminder of the bond between the members of The Wanted and their enduring connection with their audience.

Reflecting on Max George’s Resilience and Outlook on Life

As Max George continues on his road to recovery, his story serves as a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. Despite the setbacks he’s encountered, George has approached his health struggles with bravery, optimism, and a sense of humor. His willingness to share his experiences openly has not only kept his fans informed but also helped raise awareness about heart conditions and the importance of seeking medical help when something feels wrong.

George’s journey is also a reminder of the power of love and support. From his mother’s quick thinking during his health crisis to the unwavering encouragement of his girlfriend, Maisie Smith, George has been surrounded by people who care deeply about his well-being. These relationships, combined with his own determination, have been instrumental in helping him navigate this challenging chapter of his life.

As he looks ahead to the future, Max George is determined to get back to his best self. His fans, who have followed his career from his days in The Wanted to his personal struggles and triumphs, will undoubtedly be rooting for him every step of the way. Through his honesty and positivity, George continues to inspire those around him, proving that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope for a brighter tomorrow.