George Clooney has been forced to step back from several scheduled appearances at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival 2025 after falling ill with a sinus infection, his representatives confirmed. The Hollywood icon, who traveled to Venice with wife Amal Clooney earlier in the week, was slated to take part in press events and promotional dinners for his highly anticipated new film Jay Kelly, directed by Noah Baumbach.

George Clooney Withdraws From Press Events

The 64-year-old actor, known worldwide for films such as Ocean’s Eleven and Up in the Air, was expected to headline a press junket and join co-stars Adam Sandler and Laura Dern at a private dinner on Wednesday, August 27. Instead, Clooney was noticeably absent, with eyewitnesses reporting that he boarded a boat leaving the Hotel Excelsior around 4 p.m. local time to return to his residence and rest.

His representative told People:

“Unfortunately, George has a sinus infection and, under doctor’s orders, he has had to scale back his activities today.”

The illness also forced Clooney to skip the official press conference for Jay Kelly the following day. The moderator opened the event by confirming Clooney’s absence, while Baumbach added lightheartedly: “Even movie stars get sick.”

Clooney’s Stylish Arrival in Venice with Amal Clooney

Just days before his illness was announced, George and Amal Clooney made a glamorous arrival in Venice, turning heads as they cruised into the city by boat. Amal stunned in her signature chic style, while George sported a relaxed yet sophisticated look: sunglasses, a black polo, beige slim-fit trousers, and suede loafers.

The couple’s stylish entrance echoed Clooney’s long history with Italy, where he and Amal famously maintain a residence on Lake Como. Their arrival had set the tone for what many expected to be one of Clooney’s biggest festival appearances in recent years.

Jay Kelly: Clooney’s Latest Collaboration with Noah Baumbach

Clooney was in Venice to promote Netflix’s upcoming drama Jay Kelly, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Noah Baumbach, known for Marriage Story and White Noise.

According to Baumbach’s director’s statement, Jay Kelly follows the story of an actor reflecting on his life, choices, and identity:

“Jay Kelly is about a man looking back at his life and reflecting on the choices, the sacrifices, the successes, the mistakes he’s made. When is it too late to change the course of our lives? The movie is about identity, how we perform ourselves, and the gap between who we’ve decided we are and who we might actually be.”

The film stars George Clooney in the titular role, alongside Adam Sandler and Laura Dern, and has already generated significant Oscar buzz ahead of its release.

• Theatrical Release (U.S.): November 14, 2025

• Netflix Release Date: December 5, 2025

George Clooney’s History with the Venice Film Festival

This is not Clooney’s first time at the Venice Film Festival. In 2024, he attended for the premiere of Wolfs, Jon Watts’ thriller in which he starred opposite Brad Pitt. Clooney has long been considered a festival favorite, often using Venice as a platform to debut some of his most acclaimed projects.

While his absence this year disappointed fans and media, Clooney is still expected to appear at the Venice red carpet premiere of Jay Kelly once his health improves.

Impact of Clooney’s Illness on Jay Kelly’s Festival Buzz

Though Clooney’s absence from key media events may have initially raised concerns, the buzz around Jay Kelly remains strong. Industry insiders suggest that Baumbach’s reputation, combined with the powerhouse cast, ensures the film will remain a highlight of the Venice Film Festival 2025.

Fans are now eagerly awaiting Clooney’s return to the spotlight once he recovers, with many speculating that his red carpet appearance could still become one of the festival’s most talked-about moments.