Carrot Top hospitalized in Las Vegas, recovering and awake

Comedian Carrot Top, 61, was hospitalized in Las Vegas on Sept. 18 and remains under close medical care, though he is now awake and breathing on his own, his representative confirmed. His rep said he is improving and sharing humor with medical staff, and that fan messages have meant a great deal to him. Several of his shows at the Luxor Hotel and Casino were canceled, with MGM Resorts expressing relief at his recovery. Despite his public career since 2005, Carrot Top has described himself as shy and private, and has faced criticism from fellow comedians throughout his career, which he says he now ignores by focusing on supportive fans.