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Sandra Lee Reveals On-Set Stroke During ‘Dr. Pimple Popper’ Filming

Her disclosure turns a private scare into a push for stroke awareness.

Overview

  • Lee disclosed Tuesday in a People interview that an MRI confirmed an ischemic stroke in November 2025 while she filmed Season 2 at her Upland, California practice.
  • Production paused for about two months as she completed physical and occupational therapy to regain hand control and balance, and she returned to work in January.
  • She says she is pretty much back to normal and remains on blood thinners with at-home therapy, though she still notices slight speech changes and experiences PTSD about procedures.
  • An ischemic stroke happens when a blocked blood vessel cuts flow to the brain, and her neurologist says high blood pressure is the top risk factor and that her symptoms are now largely resolved.
  • Season 2 is set to premiere April 20 on Lifetime, and Lee says she hopes sharing her story prompts viewers to seek care fast and helps reduce stigma in some Asian communities.