On Friday (May 23), Billy Joel announced the cancellation of all 17 of his upcoming concerts after receiving a diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a brain disorder causing hearing, vision, and balance issues. “This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance,” reads a statement from Joel’s team. “Under his doctor’s instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period.” The 76-year-old Joel adds in his own statement, “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.”
Joel had initially planned to resume touring in July after a medical condition necessitated surgery and therapy, but he will now focus on recovery. All tickets for the canceled shows will be refunded. Joel’s wife, Alexis Roderick Joel, shared a personal update on Instagram on Monday, writing: “Thank you for the outpouring of love and support. We are so grateful for the wonderful care and swift diagnosis we received. We are hopeful for his recovery. We look forward to seeing you all in the future.” Joel and Christie Brinkley’s 39-year-old daughter, Alexa Ray Joel, took to Instagram on Saturday to pay tribute to her dad, writing “My Dad is the strongest and most resilient man I’ve ever known… and he’s entirely committed to making a full recovery.” NPH affects thinking, memory, and movement, and resembles dementia, but it can be reversible if diagnosed and treated early. (Rolling Stone)
