Iconic rocker Billy Joel has shut down the remaining legs of his North American and U.K. tour following a devastating health setback that has fans concerned about what the future holds for his legendary music career.
News of Joel’s troubles began to percolate after several of his March concerts were abruptly canceled by organizers who at the time said they had little knowledge of what befell him. But a statement from his agent reveals the “Piano Man” singer is suffering from normal pressure hydrocephalus, a condition where cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain’s ventricles.
As a result, Joel, 76, is undergoing physical therapy and has been advised by his doctors to “refrain from performing during this recovery period.”
He remains “thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health. He is grateful for the support from fans during this time and looks forward to the day when he can once again take the stage,” the statement added.
“I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding,” Joel added in a statement of his own.
Canceled concert dates will affect Washington, D.C., New York, New Orleans, Toronto, Santa Clara, Salt Lake City, and Liverpool, according to People.
The shocking news comes months after Joel collapsed on stage while performing during a concert at Mohegan Sun in Connecticut. A fan video from the February incident shows Joel spinning and playfully tossing his microphone into the crowd before stumbling and falling on his side.
However, moments later, he appeared to recover and continue on with the show.
The following month, Joel announced he would be postponing several upcoming gigs, citing a “medical condition” he was recently diagnosed with that will require him to “undergo physical therapy under the supervision of his doctors.”
“Joel is expected to make a full recovery,” his team told the outlet on March 11. “The tour will resume at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh on July 5, 2025.”
“While I regret postponing any shows, my health must come first,” Joel posted on his Instagram at the time. “I look forward to getting back on stage and sharing the joy of live music with our amazing fans. Thank you for your understanding.”
One of the most widely celebrated pop singers in modern music, Joel has garnered five Grammys and been nominated a record 23 times. He has collectively sold more than 150 million albums and, in 1999, was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
