Jaws icon Richard Dreyfuss confirmed that he would not be attending SharkCon 2025 and would sadly miss the Jaws 50th anniversary celebration in Tampa. Florida. The 77-year-old actor shared a heartfelt update from a hospital bed, wrapped in a Jaws blanket, where he revealed he is much to sick to attend.
Richard Dreyfuss had planned to attend the Florida event and meet with fans celebrating the 50th anniversary of the legendary shark movie. However, his doctors strictly advised against flying due to his condition. Dreyfuss is suffering from a severe case of Bronchitis, a viral infection that inflames the airways and can lead to breathing issues and fatigue. Unfortunately, the virus has taken a serious toll on the beloved star, according to the SharkCon Instagram.
Despite looking visibly worn, Richard Dreyfuss kept his trademark humor intact while addressing fans. His wife, Svetlana Erokhin, chimed in from off-camera to help him name his diagnosis. The couple showed warmth and appreciation for the fanbase, making it clear that skipping the event was not a decision taken lightly.
Florida SharkCon Fans Get Refunds While Richard Dreyfuss Focuses on Recovery
“I don’t want to get anyone else sick,” Dreyfuss explained from his hospital bed. Adding that he didn’t want to risk spreading the virus or worsening his own symptoms. Still, the disappointment was clear as he lamented not being able to celebrate such a milestone moment as the Jaws 50th with devoted fans.
“I feel terrible about not showing up, and I feel worse about exposing you to this apparently very viral illness,” Dreyfuss went on. “But there will be other times, and I will make it my business to show up.”
Organizers of SharkCon quickly assured attendees that any prepaid autographs or photo opportunities with Dreyfuss would be refunded automatically. The message was clear: his health comes first.
The Hollywood icon gave his best wishes to fans attending SharkCon in Tampa, Florida this weekend. Without losing his sense of humor, adding “I want you all to feel very sorry for me. And very sorry for yourselves. I’m in a lot of pain and that has to come first, my health,” he stated. “I feel very good about having the time and enough health.”
The actor has been a staple of fan conventions over the years. Regularly connecting with audiences who still adore his role as marine biologist Matt Hooper in Jaws. The 1975 Steven Spielberg film recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with a National Geographic documentary titled Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story. A tribute to the legacy that Dreyfuss helped cement.
Richard Dreyfuss may have missed SharkCon 2025, but his heartfelt message proved his dedication to the fans never wavers. While he battles this bout of bronchitis. Florida fans can rest easy knowing their favorite Jaws-chasing scientist hasn’t lost his wit. Or his gratitude. Here’s hoping this Hollywood legend is back on his feet and at the next fan event in no time.
Nina Franklin 
Sabrina Russell 
