Ray J Says He Has Only Months to Live After Heart Failure Diagnosis at Age 45

William Raymond “Ray J” Norwood Jr., the 45-year-old singer best known for hits like “Sexy Can I” and “One Wish,” has delivered an emotional and stark health update, saying doctors told him he may not be alive by 2027 because of serious heart damage and complications following a recent hospitalization.

The entertainer, also known for his work on reality TV shows including Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood and For the Love of Ray J, described his heart as only functioning at roughly 25 percent and referred to parts of it as “black,” a metaphor he used during an Instagram Live session to illustrate the severity of the condition.

Ray J’s health scare began in early January when he was hospitalized in Las Vegas for pneumonia and heart pain, an experience he says brought him close to death before he recovered enough to return home and update fans.

In the livestream, Ray J whose real name is William Ray Norwood Jr. told supporters he was grateful for their prayers but candid about his prognosis:

• “2027 is definitely a wrap for me that’s what they say,” he said, indicating doctors told him he likely won’t reach that year.
• He pointed to his chest, describing his heart’s condition as “black… it’s like done.”
• Ray J acknowledged that his past substance use, including alcohol and Adderall abuse, contributed to the deterioration of his health. He admitted, “I f***ed up,” and reflected on how he once thought he was invincible.

He also thanked his family including his older sister Brandy Norwood for support during his treatment and recovery, noting that his sister had helped pay his medical bills.

Medical updates from Ray J and secondary reports indicate that his heart is significantly weakened with reduced pumping capacity, which physicians told him may lead to a seriously limited life expectancy if improvements aren’t made. Despite the uncertainty, he has said he plans to focus on better health choices, including modifying lifestyle habits that have previously harmed his condition

Doctors reportedly prescribed multiple medications, and Ray J said he may require devices such as a pacemaker or defibrillator in the future to support his heart function, though he has emphasized the need for major lifestyle changes to help slow the progression of his illness.

Ray J first rose to fame in the late 1990s as a recording artist with songs that became R&B staples, including “One Wish” and “Sexy Can I.” He transitioned to television, starring in reality shows that further enhanced his visibility often intertwined with his family, including sister Brandy and perennial tabloid attention.

In his personal life, Ray J has faced public ups and downs, including a high-profile relationship with Kim Kardashian and his marriage to Princess Love, with whom he has two children. Recent years have included legal issues and family matters that have also played out in the spotlight.