Shopping Channel Star Ofer Barkan Hospitalized Following Cardiac Event
Veteran Israeli TV host and Shopping Channel star Ofer Barkan suffered a cardiac event and underwent catheterization at Meir Medical Center after ignoring a severe elbow infection.
Ofer Barkan, the veteran television host and one of the most familiar faces of Israel's famous Shopping Channel, has shared with his followers that he is hospitalized at Meir Medical Center in Kfar Saba following a cardiac event and subsequent catheterization.
In a video posted to his TikTok account from his hospital bed, Barkan explained the chain of events that led to his admission. He noted that an untreated elbow infection, initially managed through home hospitalization, escalated his health issues.
Working Through Illness
Despite receiving intravenous antibiotic treatment, Barkan continued working as usual until the situation deteriorated. "I went to work with the intravenous antibiotics... and I suffered a cardiac event or heart attack," he shared in the video. Maintaining his trademark optimism, he added, "I am here at Meir Hospital, and thank God, I will soon return healthier, stronger, hyperactive, and more energetic."
Barkan also made sure to praise the medical staff, stating that the hospital provided excellent service and care during his difficult procedure.
Reinventing Himself on Social Media
Barkan spent 27 years on the Shopping Channel, becoming a household name known for his energetic presentation style and unique voice. After the channel ceased television broadcasts in July 2024 after 29 years, Barkan reinvented himself as a social media star.
His daughter Dana opened a TikTok account for him, where he quickly gained popularity through humorous promotional videos for businesses and brands. He has since collaborated with major companies, including Wolt, Bit, and «Tnuva».
