Comedian Carrot Top hospitalized in Las Vegas after reported suicide attempt; longtime Luxor show canceled

Comedian Carrot Top has been hospitalized in Las Vegas following what TMZ reported as a suicide attempt, abruptly interrupting the long-running stage career that has made the red-haired prop comedian one of the most recognizable performers on the Strip.

The 61-year-old entertainer, whose real name is Scott Thompson, was taken to a local hospital on Friday, September 18, after the reported incident in the Las Vegas area, according to TMZ, which cited sources familiar with the situation. His scheduled Friday night performance at the Luxor was subsequently canceled.

Carrot Top is recovering in hospital

Thompson's representative, Jami Schlicher, confirmed that the comedian is receiving medical care, although she did not publicly address the circumstances surrounding the hospitalization.

“Mr. Thompson is recovering in the hospital and is receiving the care and support he needs,” Schlicher told TMZ. She added that Thompson's family and those closest to him were grateful for the concern and asked for privacy.

No further information about Thompson's medical condition, treatment or possible return date has been publicly released.

His Luxor performance was canceled

The hospitalization immediately affected Thompson's Las Vegas schedule. His Friday night show at the Luxor's Atrium Showroom was canceled. Casino.org also reported that his Saturday performance was canceled, while the resort had not announced a new return date as of its latest report.

The cancellation comes at a significant point in Thompson's Las Vegas career. He has performed at the Luxor since 2005, building one of the Strip's longest-running comedy residencies.

MGM Resorts said in a 2023 announcement that Thompson's contract had been extended through 2030 after he marked his 18th anniversary at the property. The company described him as the longest-running headlining comedian in Las Vegas at the time.

Who is Carrot Top?

Born Scott Thompson, Carrot Top developed his distinctive prop-based comedy style after beginning stand-up while attending Florida Atlantic University. His early performances eventually led to television exposure, including appearances on Comic Strip Live in 1991 and The Tonight Show the following year, according to MGM Resorts.

Rather than relying solely on conventional stand-up, Thompson built an act around physical props, visual jokes and rapid-fire commentary on current events and popular culture. His unusual appearance, particularly his trademark red hair, became part of the character that audiences came to associate with his stage persona.

Thompson's career has lasted for more than four decades. His television and film credits include appearances on The Tonight Show, Late Night with Conan O'Brien, The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, Family Guy, Glee and The Hangover. He also starred in films including Chairman of the Board and Dennis the Menace Strikes Again, according to MGM Resorts.