Evangeline Lilly Confirms Severe Brain Damage from Concussion, Cites Cognitive Decline

Actor Evangeline Lilly has disclosed that medical scans confirm she sustained brain damage following a concussion she suffered last year after fainting and falling onto a boulder.

Lilly, 46, revealed the diagnosis in a video posted on Instagram on January 2, several months after initially announcing a traumatic brain injury in May. The video marked one of her most recent updates about her recovery journey.

In the video, Lilly described scan results showing “almost every area in my brain is functioning at a decreased capacity.” She stated, “I do have brain damage from the TBI,” emphasizing she is now working with doctors to better understand the extent and cause of the damage and determine next steps for treatment.

Lilly noted that her cognitive decline since the incident has helped her slow down, contributing to a more restful finish to 2025. She concluded by expressing “extraordinarily grateful” and “blessed” feelings despite the diagnosis.

In an accompanying Instagram caption, Lilly wrote it was reassuring to learn symptoms were not related to perimenopause but described the situation as “discomforting” due to the challenges ahead in reversing deficiencies. She thanked supporters for their inquiries and prayers.

Lilly first detailed the incident in May, describing it as a blackout episode that occurred while she was at the beach. At that time, she shared photos of facial injuries and a damaged tooth. Lilly has previously mentioned experiencing fainting spells since childhood.