Manganiello's 'Bloodlines' Memoir Details Illness, Divorce, and Cruise Allegations

Key points

• Manganiello and Vergara married in 2015 and finalized their divorce in 2024 after separating in 2023.
• The actor underwent a life-saving surgery in 2016 that removed his large intestine, resulting in a permanent ostomy bag for seven months.
• Manganiello disputes Vergara’s previous claims that the marriage ended due to disagreements about having children, citing his illness as the primary cause.
• The memoir includes allegations that Tom Cruise, an executive producer on 'Reacher,' vetoed Manganiello’s casting due to his relationship with Vergara.
• Manganiello recounts a visit to a Cuba-based shaman who claimed a curse from Vergara’s ex-fiancé, Nick Loeb, was causing his illness.

Background

Manganiello’s memoir, 'Bloodlines,' was released on October 13, 2026. Prior coverage noted that the book details his near-death experience and his acceptance of the role of Deathstroke in Ben Affleck’s Batman film while critically ill. Earlier reports also highlighted that Manganiello has not spoken to Vergara since the divorce was finalized, and that Vergara’s son responded to the memoir’s claims with social media posts criticizing 'narcissistic' men. The book also explores Manganiello’s spiritual journey, including consultations with various shamans and a Greek Orthodox monastery in Pennsylvania.

How outlets are covering it

Fox News emphasizes the dramatic revelations in the memoir, including the shaman’s curse allegation and the Tom Cruise casting interference, framing the story as a series of 'bombshells.' CBS News focuses on Manganiello’s health journey and his motivation for sharing his story, highlighting his return to Mt. Lebanon and his gratitude for being alive. While Fox News details the financial and emotional fallout of the divorce, including a $500,000 loan from Vergara, CBS News centers on the actor’s spiritual awakening and the impact of the book on readers dealing with trauma. The two outlets differ in tone, with Fox News presenting the memoir as a tabloid-style exposé and CBS News framing it as a personal health and spiritual narrative.

Why it matters

The memoir provides a new perspective on the high-profile divorce of two celebrities, challenging previous narratives about the reasons for their split. It also sheds light on the intersection of health, spirituality, and celebrity culture, as well as the potential influence of powerful figures like Tom Cruise on industry decisions. The book’s release has sparked public discussion about the realities of chronic illness and the impact of media on personal relationships.

What to watch

Manganiello is expected to continue promoting 'Bloodlines' through interviews and public appearances. The book’s impact on his career and the public’s reaction to the allegations against Vergara and Cruise will likely be monitored in the coming weeks. There may also be further responses from Vergara or her representatives to the claims made in the memoir.