Billy Joel cancels all tour dates across UK and US after announcing rare brain disorder diagnosis
Legendary singer Billy Joel has cancelled all his upcoming tour dates after being diagnosed with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), a rare brain disorder.
According to a statement released on Friday, the 76-year-old’s condition “has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance”.
The announcement was made via Joel’s Instagram page, where he informed fans that he would be taking time away from performing to focus on his health.
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus is a “very rare condition” that “occurs when a person has too much fluid in the brain”, according to Yale Medicine.
It affects fewer than 3 per cent of adults over the age of 65 and impacts men and women equally.
The Alzheimer’s Association explains that NPH symptoms include difficulty walking with a wide stance and body leaning forward, as well as cognitive decline, including slowed thinking and short-term memory loss.
The condition is often misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease.
The statement released on Friday explained that Joel is “undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period”.
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The “Piano Man” singer expressed his regret to fans, stating: “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.”
The statement added that Joel is “thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritising his health” as he focuses on his recovery from the neurological condition.
It is not the first time Joel has faced health challenges this year.
In March, he postponed eight tour dates to focus on recovering from recent surgery, though the specific condition was not disclosed at that time.
In late February, the singer fell after performing “It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me” during a concert in Connecticut.
He quickly recovered from the incident, though it remains unclear whether this fall was related to his NPH diagnosis or merely coincidental.
Joel said he is looking forward to returning to the stage when his health permits.
The singer has cancelled a total of 17 dates, including the eight previously rescheduled shows.
Joel’s statement confirmed that ticket holders “will be automatically refunded the cost of their tickets”.