‘Jaws’ Star Richard Dreyfuss, 77, Shares Concerning Health Update

Richard Dreyfuss, 77, was unable to attend this year’s SharkCon due to illness.

The Oscar-winning actor, widely recognized for his role in Jaws, had to cancel his planned appearance at the shark-themed convention in Tampa, Florida, after contracting viral bronchitis.

In a video shared on SharkCon’s Instagram on July 11, Dreyfuss apologized to fans and explained that his doctors advised against traveling due to his condition. The event took place July 12–13 and was sponsored by National Geographic.

SharkCon is an annual celebration dedicated to sharks, featuring educational exhibits, guest speakers, and appearances from celebrities known for their work in shark-related films or documentaries.

“I’m really sorry I can’t be there,” Dreyfuss said. “My doctors told me I can’t take a five-hour flight, and I don’t want to risk spreading the illness or making it worse.”

SharkCon announced that all fans who had purchased autographs or photo sessions with Dreyfuss would be refunded automatically. The actor promised to try and attend a future event and thanked fans for their understanding.

Bronchitis, according to the Cleveland Clinic, occurs when the lung’s airways become inflamed and mucus-filled, causing persistent coughing. While viral bronchitis typically resolves on its own, chronic cases need long-term care. Risk factors include smoking, asthma, COPD, GERD, autoimmune issues, and pollution exposure.

Richard Dreyfuss, born in Brooklyn in 1947, gained fame in the ’70s with films like American Graffiti, Jaws, and Close Encounters. He won the Best Actor Oscar in 1977 and has been praised for his broad career in film, TV, and theater.