Did Brian Dietzen have a stroke in real life?

Brian Keith Dietzen, widely recognized for his supporting role as Dr. Jimmy Palmer on the long-running television series NCIS, faced a life-altering moment in 2020 when he experienced a stroke.

However, the actor’s resilience and a timely intervention by his Apple Watch played a crucial role in his remarkable recovery. Dietzen’s stroke, described as a dual embolic stroke in his cerebellum, presented a harrowing situation as he lost control of the muscles in his face and hands.

Recounting the experience, Dietzen shared with Outsider, “My hands were all curled up, and it was terrifying.” In a moment of distress, it was his Apple Watch that emerged as a lifesaver.

On that fateful day, Dietzen found himself on the floor of his bathroom, grappling with the aftermath of the stroke. It was at this critical juncture that the Apple Watch became a vital link to help.

Despite the physical limitations, Dietzen was able to use voice commands, stating, “I pulled out my phone, and I was like, ‘Oh —, I can’t use my fingers.’ And so I said, ‘Hey, Siri, call Kelly,’ and called my wife and I said, ‘I need help.’”

The ability to make a hands-free call through his smartwatch proved instrumental in summoning assistance promptly. Dietzen’s quick thinking, coupled with the technology at his disposal, set the stage for a swift response that likely played a significant role in his recovery.

In the aftermath of the stroke, Dietzen experienced the gradual return of movement in his face and hands as the blood clot in his brain had shifted. Reflecting on the incident, he expressed a sense of gratitude, stating that he felt “really blessed” to have a “really healthy cardiovascular system.”

Despite this health scare, Brian Dietzen has not allowed it to hinder his zest for life. The actor, known for his portrayal of the amiable Dr. Palmer on NCIS, has continued to embrace an active lifestyle. His social media posts often showcase his participation in various activities, including running, skiing, swimming, and playing golf.