English Woman's Journal - Tiffani Thiessen Reveals Need for Hip Replacement Surgery at Age 52

Tiffani Thiessen, best known for her role as Kelly Kapowski in the 1980s teen sitcom "Saved by the Bell," has revealed that she requires hip replacement surgery at age 52. The actress shared the details of her diagnosis during a recent appearance on the podcast "Breaking Bread with Tom Papa," explaining that the procedure is necessary due to hip dysplasia and a torn labrum.

Thiessen, who described herself as having been a dancer in her youth, noted that her early flexibility may have contributed to the structural issues in her hips. "I was a dancer when I was younger, which was a good thing," she said. "I have a torn labrum. That’s one issue I have." During a second opinion appointment, she learned of the underlying dysplasia. "And then I found out going to my second opinion that I’m basically a German shepherd. I have hip dysplasia," she joked, warning listeners about the inevitable physical toll of an active life.

The condition has already impacted her daily activities and hobbies. Thiessen admitted that her recent inability to play pickleball, a sport she enjoys with her son, is directly linked to her hip pain. "My doctor didn’t say it was pickleball, but it probably hasn’t helped," she said. "I have not been able to play in the last couple weeks because my hip’s been so bad." She noted that while her son has only been playing for less than a year and is now beginning to beat her at the game, her own physical limitations are becoming more apparent.

Despite the physical challenges, Thiessen expressed no desire to retire from acting. She reflected on her career trajectory, which began with modeling and winning Miss Junior America in 1987, before landing the role that made her a household name in 1989. Decades later, she joined the cast of "Beverly Hills, 90210" as Valerie Malone, further cementing her status in television history.

When asked about her current motivations, Thiessen stated that her primary goal is simply to continue working. "It’s more just wanting to continue to have the opportunity to do it," she explained. "That’s what it is for me now. It’s not so much specific, ‘I want this or this award or this type of film or work with this type of person.’ ... But, it’s more, the main thing is just getting to still do it." She added that as actors age, opportunities can shrink, making the chance to keep performing increasingly valuable.

Thiessen credited younger generations of actors for helping her maintain a youthful perspective. "I really like working with this young generation. Like, they just, they’re really fun," she said. "I think they’re keeping me young." She contrasted her own exhaustion after early morning shoots with the energy of younger colleagues who were still engaged in social media activities like TikTok.

Currently, Thiessen is starring as Miss Graves, the headmistress of a supernatural boarding school, in the series "Coven Academy." She also recently provided the voice for the superhero She-Hulk in the 2024 animated special "LEGO Marvel Avengers: Mission Demolition." While she acknowledged the difficulties of aging in Hollywood, she described herself as lucky to have worked on successful and enjoyable projects throughout her career.

Regarding her upcoming surgery, Thiessen offered a cautiously optimistic outlook. "I hear that hip replacements aren’t as bad as knee and shoulder," she said, suggesting that while the recovery will be significant, it may be more manageable than other major orthopedic procedures.

L.Scott--EWJ