Billy Joel, the iconic singer-songwriter known worldwide as the "Piano Man," has opened up about his recent health struggles following a diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), a serious yet treatable brain disorder. Since revealing his condition earlier this year, Joel has been candid with fans and the public about his journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, offering reassurance amid concerns about his well-being.
In May 2025, Joel was diagnosed with NPH, a condition that can severely impact hearing, vision, and balance. The diagnosis forced the 76-year-old musician to postpone several live performances across the United States and the United Kingdom, including major shows at Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh and Anfield Stadium in Liverpool. These postponed UK concerts have now been rescheduled for June 6 and June 20, 2026, respectively, much to the relief of fans eager to see him return to the stage.
Joel’s health update came on July 22, 2025, through various interviews and media appearances, where he sought to calm fears about the severity of his condition. Speaking on Bill Maher’s Club Random podcast, Joel described his current state frankly, saying, "I’m good. It’s not fixed, it’s still being worked on. I feel fine, my balance sucks. It’s like being on a boat." This metaphor vividly captures the disorienting effects of NPH on his equilibrium, yet Joel’s tone remained optimistic.
He also addressed the label of "brain disorder," which he feels sounds more alarming than his actual experience. "They keep referring to what I have as a brain disorder, so it sounds a lot worse than what I’m feeling," he explained. Despite the challenges, Joel emphasized that he is actively working with medical professionals to manage and recover from the condition.
One of the more personal revelations Joel shared was his speculation about the possible causes of his NPH. While medical experts have yet to pinpoint a definitive cause, Joel admitted to wondering if his past alcohol consumption could have played a role. "Nobody knows. They don’t know. I thought it must be from drinking. I don’t anymore, but I used to like a fish," he said with characteristic humor, acknowledging his history while clarifying that no one truly understands the origin of his illness.
Joel’s health challenges have had tangible impacts on his career. In addition to postponing concerts, he was unable to attend the premiere of his two-part documentary, "Billy Joel: And So It Goes," at the Tribeca Film Festival in June 2025. At the screening, co-director Susan Lacy reassured attendees that Joel would return, conveying his message: "Getting old sucks, but it’s still preferable to getting cremated." This candid remark resonated with fans, highlighting Joel’s enduring spirit and wit even in difficult times.
Adding to the reassurance, radio personality Howard Stern shared an encouraging update during his show in June 2025 after dining with Joel. Stern told listeners, "He does have issues, but he said, ‘Yeah, you can tell people: I’m not dying.’" This statement underscored Joel’s determination to maintain transparency while dispelling rumors about his health.
Joel’s openness about his condition has been a consistent theme. In interviews with People magazine and on the Club Random podcast, he has repeatedly urged fans not to worry. "I know a lot of people are worried about me and my health, but I’m okay," he said. "What I have is something very few people know about, including me, no matter how much you try to research it. I’m doing my best to work with it and to recover from it." Despite initially finding the diagnosis "scary" and "disturbing," Joel’s message remains hopeful and grounded.
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus is an uncommon condition, often affecting people over 60, and is characterized by symptoms that can mimic other neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. The condition involves an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid that causes pressure on the brain, leading to mobility problems and cognitive impairments. However, unlike many degenerative diseases, NPH is treatable, and patients like Joel can experience significant improvement with proper medical intervention.
The postponement of Joel’s concerts, including the highly anticipated UK shows at Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium and Anfield Stadium, was met with understanding from fans and the music community. Joel himself expressed regret over the postponements but emphasized the importance of prioritizing his health. "While I regret postponing any shows, my health must come first," he said. "I look forward to getting back on stage and sharing the joy of live music with our amazing fans. Thank you for your understanding." His team echoed these sentiments, expressing gratitude for the support and anticipation for his return.
Billy Joel’s career, spanning over six decades, has been marked by resilience and creativity. With five Grammy Awards and 23 nominations, and an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by Ray Charles in 1999, Joel’s legacy is firmly established. His recent release, "Turn The Lights Back On," his first new music in 17 years, has been celebrated by fans and critics alike, underscoring his enduring talent.
Despite the setbacks caused by his health, Joel’s spirit remains unbroken. His candid conversations about his condition, combined with his humor and honesty, have endeared him even more to his audience. As he continues his recovery, the music world watches with hopeful anticipation for the day when the "Piano Man" will once again grace the stage, turning the lights back on for fans worldwide.
