Billy Joel cancels all tour dates over worsening brain disorder: 'Sorry to disappoint our audience'

Billy Joel, 75, is prioritizing his health after he was diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, a condition involving fluid buildup in the skull
PUBLISHED MAY 24, 2025
Billy Joel steps away from the stage after brain disorder diagnosis, canceling shows through 2026 and focusing on recovery (Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
Billy Joel steps away from the stage after brain disorder diagnosis, canceling shows through 2026 and focusing on recovery (Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Music legend Billy Joel has suspended all upcoming performances after receiving a serious medical diagnosis.

The 75-year-old singer is stepping away from the stage to prioritize his health following a doctor's advice.


 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Billy Joel (@billyjoel)


 

Billy Joel says he is 'sincerely sorry to disappoint' his fans in heartfelt statement

The 'Piano Man' artist has been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus, a condition involving fluid buildup in the skull. As a result, he has canceled concerts scheduled through mid-2026.

Joe shared the news with fans through a press release on Instagram on May 23.

“I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience,” he said, adding, “And thank you for understanding.”

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - FEBRUARY 26:  Recording artist Billy Joel performs at Allegiant Stadium on Febru
Recording artist Billy Joel performs at Allegiant Stadium on February 26, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada (Ethan Miller/Getty Images) 

According to the release, “This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance.”

His doctors have recommended he undergo physical therapy and take a break from performing during recovery.

“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.

The update also noted, “Billy is 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," it concluded. 

Billy Joel's collaborations with Sting and Stevie Nicks cancelled

The announcement affects shows originally scheduled as far ahead as July 2026, including a performance in Charlotte, North Carolina.

A postponed April 2025 concert date was also pulled before being officially announced.

Tennis legend Martina Navratilova during the trophy presentations, which she presented along with Chris Evert after the Women's Singles Final on Court Philippe-Chatrier at the 2024 French Open Tennis Tournament at Roland Garros on June 8th, 2024, in Paris, France. (Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)
Billy Joel's upcoming shows with Stevie Nicks have also been cancelled (Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)

Joel was all set to perform in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

He was also scheduled for co-headlining shows with Stevie Nicks, Rod Stewart, and Sting, per E! News.

Joel, who shares daughter Alexa Ray, 39, with ex-wife Christie Brinkley, and daughters Della Rose, 9, and Remy, 7, with wife Alexis Roderick, first postponed shows in March, citing an undisclosed health issue.


 
 
 
 
 
View this post on Instagram
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Billy Joel (@billyjoel)


 

At the time, he said, “While I regret postponing any shows, my health must come first,” adding, “I look forward to getting back on stage and sharing the joy of live music with our amazing fans. Thank you for your understanding.”

Fans and friends offer love and support after Billy Joel's health diagnosis

Supporters flooded Billy’s Instagram post with messages of love and encouragement following the announcement.

One fan wrote, “We love you Billy. Your fans just want you to feel better. That’s the most important thing.”

Another commented, “Take care of your health. We your fans love you. You have graced us with such wonderful music and me personally am extremely grateful for your sacrifices. GOD BLESS YOU. Get well our beloved ‘piano man.’”

Davey Johnstone, a Scottish rock guitarist, also shared his support. “Love you Billy, best wishes for your complete recovery. Love from us Johnstones,” he wrote.

Other messages included, “Rest up, Great One! You’ll be back!” and “Get well soon Billy.”

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online

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