Fans shocked after sudden announcement from Billy Joel—what we know so far
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Health concerns are never easy—especially when they involve a beloved public figure known for decades of unforgettable performances.
What began as a routine update from a legendary musician soon turned into a wave of concern for fans across the globe.
Now, questions are swirling about the future of his touring schedule and the condition affecting his well-being.
Musician Billy Joel confirmed he had been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, a condition that impacted his hearing, vision and balance.
He announced the news via social media, where he also apologised to fans for cancelling upcoming shows across North America and England.
Joel wrote: ‘I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.’
His team released a statement explaining that the condition had been ‘exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision and balance’.
‘Under his doctor's instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period,’ the statement read.
‘Normal pressure hydrocephalus is described by the Cleveland Clinic as a ‘brain disorder that can affect brain-related abilities, including thinking and concentrating, memory, movement and more’.
The illness, which involves a build-up of fluid in the brain, may lead to worsening symptoms if not treated promptly.
It is considered rare and often difficult to diagnose.
Joel previously revealed in March that he had undergone surgery and was completing physical therapy.
It remained unclear whether that surgery had been connected to the hydrocephalus diagnosis.
At the time, his team had stated doctors expected him to make a full recovery.
The condition may also cause difficulty walking, memory problems and bladder control issues.
Successful treatment often involves the surgical insertion of a tube to drain excess fluid, followed by physical rehabilitation.
Joel, 76, had concluded his long-running residency at Madison Square Garden in July 2024 but had continued to tour.
All tickets for his upcoming concerts would be refunded.
Earlier this year, Billy Joel made headlines after falling on stage during a performance, sparking concern among fans.
Source: Tiktok/thesun
In a previous story, we looked at how the incident raised questions about his health and stamina.
You can read more about that moment and the reaction it sparked here.
With such a legendary career behind him, how do you think Billy Joel’s absence from the stage will impact the music scene? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
What began as a routine update from a legendary musician soon turned into a wave of concern for fans across the globe.
Now, questions are swirling about the future of his touring schedule and the condition affecting his well-being.
Musician Billy Joel confirmed he had been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, a condition that impacted his hearing, vision and balance.
He announced the news via social media, where he also apologised to fans for cancelling upcoming shows across North America and England.
Joel wrote: ‘I'm sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.’
Billy Joel reveals serious health diagnosis. Image source: AP/Evan Agostini/Invision/File
His team released a statement explaining that the condition had been ‘exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision and balance’.
‘Under his doctor's instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period,’ the statement read.
‘Normal pressure hydrocephalus is described by the Cleveland Clinic as a ‘brain disorder that can affect brain-related abilities, including thinking and concentrating, memory, movement and more’.
The illness, which involves a build-up of fluid in the brain, may lead to worsening symptoms if not treated promptly.
It is considered rare and often difficult to diagnose.
Joel previously revealed in March that he had undergone surgery and was completing physical therapy.
It remained unclear whether that surgery had been connected to the hydrocephalus diagnosis.
At the time, his team had stated doctors expected him to make a full recovery.
The condition may also cause difficulty walking, memory problems and bladder control issues.
Successful treatment often involves the surgical insertion of a tube to drain excess fluid, followed by physical rehabilitation.
Joel, 76, had concluded his long-running residency at Madison Square Garden in July 2024 but had continued to tour.
All tickets for his upcoming concerts would be refunded.
Earlier this year, Billy Joel made headlines after falling on stage during a performance, sparking concern among fans.
Source: Tiktok/thesun
In a previous story, we looked at how the incident raised questions about his health and stamina.
You can read more about that moment and the reaction it sparked here.
With such a legendary career behind him, how do you think Billy Joel’s absence from the stage will impact the music scene? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
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