It’s the end of an era as musical icon Billy Joel makes a hard choice. Today, he is cancelling all of his remaining tour dates after a recent series of health emergencies. As Joel’s health began to decline, he recently was diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus. This condition leads to an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, which led to the announcement. This diagnosis has forced him to have surgery and extensive physical therapy in early March, resulting in concert dates being rescheduled.
The Groundbreaking “Queen of Poly Style” was set to perform at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on November 9, 2024. He intended to kick off his new concert series in Pittsburgh on July 5, 2025. The severity of his illness has forced a reexamination of his health priorities. In the meantime, Joel has been advised by his medical team to avoid performing during this important recovery window.
Normal pressure hydrocephalus can cause serious distressing and debilitating complications if untreated. According to the U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, this condition may cause pressure to build up. This build-up of pressure can cause permanent brain injury and affect movement, bladder function, and thinking abilities. Current treatments involve implanting a shunt into the child’s brain where it can drain away the excess fluid. The other treatment involves an endoscopic third ventriculostomy (EVT), which creates a pathway for fluid to circulate more freely.
In a heartfelt statement on Instagram, Joel expressed gratitude for the support he has received from his fans during this challenging time. He acknowledged that “this condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance.” He emphasized the importance of prioritizing his health, stating, “my health must come first. I look forward to getting back on stage and sharing the joy of live music with our amazing fans.”
Joel is undergoing very specialized physical therapy designed to help his body develop in alignment to support the activity he loves. He is looking forward to continuing his recuperation and is committed to staying focused on his health, and is grateful for the exceptional care he’s receiving.
“I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding,” – Billy Joel
As fans eagerly await updates on his progress, many have expressed their support for the artist as he navigates this difficult period. The outpouring of concern shows the powerful connections Joel has developed with his audience over these years.
