Hollywood heartthrob Zac Efron is probably thrilled to be alive after contracting a life-threatening form of "typhoid or similar bacterial infection” while filming his new TV show in Papua New Guinea. The show is aptly named Killing Zac Efron.
The news was first reported by Australia's Sunday Telegraph, where it was revealed that Efron was flown from Papua New Guinea, to Brisbane, and then to St Andrews War Memorial in Spring Hill, Australia, where he was treated for approximately a week before being allowed to fly home to Los Angeles on Christmas Eve.
Dr. Glenn McKay of the Medical Rescue Group, who oversaw the Greatest Showman star's transfer from Papua New Guinea to Brisbane, couldn't confirm that the patient was Efron, but did confirm that someone was treated.
"I can't discuss any confidential patient information," he said. "I can firm that Medical Rescue retrieved a U.S. citizen in his 30s from PNG to Brisbane recently for medical attention in Australia. He was admitted to St Andrews War Memorial Hospital in stable condition."
Efron was in Papua New Guinea filming his show, Killing Zac Efron, which follows the star for 21 days as he lives in the jungle with only a tour guide and some basic survival gear.
"I tend to thrive under extreme circumstances and seek out opportunities that challenge me on every level," Efron said in a statement at the time. "I am excited to explore any uncharted territory and discover what unexpected adventure awaits."
Added executive producer Lydia Tenaglia, "We are excited to partner with Quibi on this new mobile experience to bring the audience on a wild, one-of-a-kind immersive journey into Zac’s world as he travels through remote locations in search of adventure."
Photos of Efron in Papua New Guinea have been surfacing on social media, courtesy of his tour guide Cyril Tara.
"High school Musical TROYE tour around middle sepik," Tara wrote on Facebook on December 7th. "I am Very happy to be is guide."
Luckily, it seems like Efron is doing just fine, as he was pictured this weekend at his friend's store opening in Los Angeles. He also posted message on Twitter, thanking everyone for their concern.
"Very thankful to everyone who has reached out," he wrote. "I did get sick in Papua New Guinea but I bounced back quick and finished an amazing 3 weeks in P.N.G. I’m home for the holidays with my friends and family. Thanks for all the love and concern, see you in 2020!"
