Billy Joel’s Health Update

Billy Joel, the five-time Grammy winner, has given an update on his health two months after being diagnosed with a rare brain condition called normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). In a recent podcast with Bill Maher, Joel shared that he is feeling "good" despite his condition, which he described as "still working" and affecting his balance.

What is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus?

Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a rare and poorly understood condition that affects people over the age of 60, according to the NHS. It causes a buildup of fluid in the brain, which can impact hearing, vision, and mobility. Joel’s condition was diagnosed at the beginning of this year, and he has been undergoing "specific" physiotherapy as part of his treatment.

Impact on His Career

Joel was forced to cancel several concert dates in May due to his condition, which his doctors said had been "exacerbated by recent performances." He has also called off a number of planned appearances in North America and Europe in 2025 and 2026, including stadium shows in Edinburgh and Liverpool. Despite this, Joel remains committed to his health and is prioritizing his recovery.

A Message from His Family

Joel’s wife, Alexis, took to Instagram to express the family’s gratitude for the "wonderful care and quick diagnosis" they received. She also shared their hopes for a speedy recovery. Joel himself has reassured fans that he is feeling positive about his condition, saying that it’s "not as bad as it sounds."

His Recent Performances

Joel has been touring regularly in recent years and ended a record-breaking residency at Madison Square Garden in New York last year. His last performance was in February 2025, where he fell on his back during the show after throwing a microphone stand into the crowd. Shortly after, he announced a shift in his tour schedule due to a medical illness, which required him to undergo physiotherapy as part of his recovery.

Looking to the Future

Despite the setbacks, Joel remains a beloved figure in the music industry, known for hits like "Uptown Girl" and "Piano Man." Fans are eagerly awaiting his return to the stage, and with his positive outlook and commitment to his health, it’s likely that Joel will be back to performing soon. For now, he is focusing on his recovery and taking things one step at a time.