“Entourage” star Jeremy Piven has been making a big splash on Broadway in the David Mamet drama “Speed the Plow,” but suddenly dropped out of the production due to a medical condition. At first, I thought maybe his ego got so huge that his head exploded, but instead, Piven says he has possible mercury poisoning. Those associated with the show are keeping tight-lipped regarding the Emmy-award winning actor’s impromptu departure- but it sure does sound suspicious.

Jeremy Piven will abruptly end his run in Broadway’s “Speed-the-Plow,” after missing Tuesday evening’s performance and a Wednesday matinee.

Piven has informed the producers that he hasn’t been feeling well and that the condition is attributable to a high mercury count.

The show’s producers weren’t returning calls, but Daily Variety reached out to David Mamet, who wrote the showbiz satire and seemed skeptical of the reasons for Piven’s departure. More than one option

“I talked to Jeremy on the phone, and he told me that he discovered that he had a very high level of mercury,” Mamet said. “So my understanding is that he is leaving show business to pursue a career as a thermometer.”

Mamet indicated that the show will go on despite Piven’s exit.

“The good news is that some really great actors will be helping out and stepping in, which to me is a sign of great heroism and friendship,” said Mamet, who declined to name the replacements.

Piven, who opened alongside Elisabeth Moss and Raul Esparza in the successful revival of Mamet’s play on Oct. 23, had been expected to stay until late February.

A spokeswoman for the actor said he wanted to continue in the role but that doctors advised him he should end his run immediately.

The show is one of a handful of star-driven play revivals to log strong sales this fall, with “Plow” generally averaging more than $500,000 per week since opening to strong reviews.

[From Variety]

David Mamet has a very dry sense of humor doesn’t he? If it turns out that Piven really does have mercury poisoning he’ll feel bad about that remark. But it is kind of funny.

There are no reports on the symptoms Piven experienced, but typical symptoms of mercury poisoning go way beyond “not feeling well.” They include impairment of vision, speech and hearing, severe lethargy and lack of coordination. In recent photos, Piven was looking a little paler than usual and seemed kind of out-of-it. That could also be attributed to his grueling Broadway schedule, or his love of drinking and paryting. His alter ego, Ari Gold on “Entourage” wouldn’t be above telling a lie to get out of an obligation. So: is he being honest or not?

Jeremy Piven looking pale but healthy at the opening of “The Wrestler” on Dec. 8 in New York, and at a Microsoft even on Dec. 3. Photo credits: WENN.

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