Daniel Neesonson of Liam Neeson and late Natasha Richardsonopens his chest by surgery for a rare congenital heart defect.
“I was born with BAV (Bicuspid Aortic Valve) a condition where the aortic valve has two leaflets instead of the usual three,” Daniel, 29, wrote in an Instagram post on Tuesday, March 3. “About 2% of people have it, and most people don’t even know it. It can last for years before it starts to cause valve failure or enlargement.”
“For me, I was tested twice a year for the rest of my life, monitoring my heart,” continued Daniel. “Finally, I started to feel a large dilation of the left ventricle and an enlargement of the aorta. I knew it was going to be treated. Some people with BAV have surgery later in life, but I’m drawing the grass for the first birds.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, a bicuspid aortic valve can lead to complications including a narrowing of the aortic valve, backflow and/or an enlarged aorta, which Daniel said he experienced.
Liam Neeson is the proud father of two sons: Micheál Richardson and Daniel Neeson. Liam and his late wife, Natasha Richardson, tied the knot in 1994 and welcomed Micheál in 1995, followed by Daniel in 1996. After Natasha’s unexpected death in 2009, Liam’s main focus as a father was “making sure they were okay.” “Everybody […]
“There is nothing more empowering than understanding your life, staying on top of your game, and planning ahead. Life is about anticipation, not reaction,” The Naked Gun wrote the actor’s son.
“There’s something amazing about realizing that one of your biggest challenges has been quietly developing inside you all your life. There’s no surprise warning. It’s just science, genetics, and time,” he shared.
Daniel wrote: “I have always prided myself on winning battles and working to control the area I live in. “This was different. … This required dedication. Being there. To let go. Relying on world-class surgeons and incredible nurses. Trust in the universe. I hope that even if I can’t control the outcome, I can control my mind and my subconscious.”
“Overcoming this wasn’t about being fearless. It was about relying on the power of healing and being present as much as possible. I looked at this surgery as a celebration, not a process,” he continued, thanking his medical team for “taking amazing care of me.”
Daniel wrote, “The road to recovery is beautiful, patient, and rewarding. Always speak for yourself and listen to your body. Everyone should have their heart checked by a cardiologist, even if they don’t have a known medical condition.”
“Most importantly, surrender to the present. Don’t live in fear. The universe has your back if you learn to dance with it,” he concluded.
Liam, 73, has two sons with his late wife, Daniel Michel30.
Natasha Richardson was Hollywood royalty long before her marriage to Liam Neeson. Richardson grew up as a member of the Redgrave family, theater and film royalty. Natasha was the eldest daughter of actress Vanessa Redgrave and director Tony Richardson. Besides Natasha, the couple shares a daughter, Joel Richardson. Natasha and Joley’s parents […]
In Tuesday’s post, Daniel also thanked his fiancee, Natalie Ackermanmarried him in September 2025 after eight years of dating.
“What an amazing feeling of love!!!!!! I love you, Danny, and I’m so thankful for all of our friends and family who made this day so special 🥹 Beyond thankful,” Natalie wrote on Instagram at the time.
