Comic John Pinette checks into rehab

TORONTO — Comedian John Pinette has cancelled a number of upcoming shows after checking himself into rehab for an addiction to prescription medication.

The 49-year-old said got hooked on pills following surgery earlier this year.

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“Thanks to everyone for your concern and well wishes,” Pinette tweeted on Tuesday. “Want to apologize for having missed shows last weekend, but I hope you understand.”

Pinette was scheduled to perform at the Boulevard Casino in Coquitlam, B.C. on Sept. 14, Caesars Windsor in Ontario on Sept. 18 and Casino Rama in Orillia, Ont. on Oct. 3.

Best known for playing Howie — the man who got robbed — in the 1998 series finale of Seinfeld, he also had recurring roles on Parker Lewis Can’t Lose and Vinnie & Bobby. Pinette works steadily as a stand-up comic.