Ed McMahon on the Mend

Thu., Mar. 13, 2008 7:37 PM PDT by Natalie Finn

Heeeeeeeere's some encouraging news.

Ed McMahon is steadily recovering after undergoing two surgeries to repair a broken neck he suffered in a fall last year, according to a statement released Thursday by the veteran TV personality's publicist.

Responding to sightings of McMahon sporting a neck brace at a recent public event, rep Susan DeBow said he fell last March, But while it's been slow going for the former Tonight Show wingman, the thrice-married father of five is working hard at his physical rehabilitation.

"It's been a tough year, but I'm working hard in rehab and doing the best I can to get through it," McMahon, who celebrated his 85h birthday on Mar. 6, said in a statement.

DeBow said that she doesn't believe McMahon's accident occurred at his Beverly Hills home; hence, she could not discuss further details for various legal reasons.

McMahon did fall down at his home in March 2005, suffering a mild concussion and a bump on the head that required several stitches.

McMahon, a Marine fighter pilot during World War II, spent 30 years by Johnny Carson's side as the announcer on The Tonight Show and also hosted the pioneering talent competition Star Search from 1983 to 1995.