Famed gay director John Waters was in a brief hospital stay following a car crash on Tuesday morning in Baltimore County, Maryland. He was released from the hospital early afternoon after it was determined that he didn't have any serious injuries.
The 78-year-old filmmaker gave a brief statement about the accident, revealing that he hasn't been found responsible for the collision. While his message reassured fans about his safety, he also mentioned experiencing some physical discomfort.
He said, “Since it hurts when I laugh I will have no witty answer about being in [an] … accident that no one has said was my fault. Hope you understand. I’m released from the hospital and all is ok.”
Waters’ most popular films include Hairspray, Pink Flamingos, and Serial Mom, as well as his earlier cult classics like Female Trouble, Polyester, and Multiple Maniacs. His films often feature deranged criminal outcasts who angrily (and hilariously) reject mainstream suburban niceties. Waters is also known for making cameo appearances in his own movies.
Waters is currently working on a film version of his 2022 novel, Liarmouth: A Feel-Bad Romance. The novel follows Marsha Sprinkle, an airport suitcase thief, and her accomplice Daryl, who has talking genitals. The two criminals run from the law and cause chaos along the way. Bisexual actress Aubrey Plaza will play Sprinkle, and Waters will write and direct the film.
Waters has also been touring nationwide with stand-up comedy-style shows that include funny stories and Q&A sessions with the audience.
In 2023, Waters received the 2,763rd star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Along with his star’s unveiling, the Academy of Motion Pictures Museum hosted a career retrospective entitled “John Waters: Pope of Trash.”
“John Waters has been a huge part of pop culture for many years,” said Ana Martinez, producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. “As a director, he has created some of our historic and favorite film moments and we’re thrilled to welcome him to our landmark location for this well-deserved and permanent tribute.”
At a press conference for the museum’s retrospective, Waters joked, “I’m so respectable I could puke.”
