Billy Joel has canceled all of his upcoming concerts due to Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, he announced on Friday. The update comes three months after he collapsed onstage at Mohegan Sun Arena.
“I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience,” the singer said in a statement to Rolling Stone. “Thank you for understanding.”
“This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision and balance,” his team added. “Under his doctor’s instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period. Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health.”
The cancelations will impact 17 scheduled stadium shows across England and North America. Joel previously postponed his tour in March after falling onstage at his most recent concert in Uncasville, Connecticut, in February.
“While I regret postponing any shows, my health must come first,” he said at the time. “I look forward to getting back on stage and sharing the joy of live music with our amazing fans.”
“The current tour will be postponed for four months to allow him to recover from recent surgery and to undergo physical therapy under the supervision of his doctors. Joel is expected to make a full recovery,” Joel’s initial statement noted. “Thank you for your understanding. All purchased tickets will automatically be valid for the rescheduled shows.”
“Billy Joel: And So It Goes” is scheduled to open this year’s Tribeca Festival on June 4 at the Beacon Theatre. The documentary about the legendary musician’s life and career comes from directors Susan Lacy and Jessica Levin, who weave rare, never-before-seen archival footage with candid, soul-baring interviews from the entertainer. In a statement shared with TheWrap later on Friday, Tribeca Festival co-founders Jane Rosenthal and Robert De Niro wished Joel a fast recovery and celebrated him as a “New York icon and global music legend.”
“Our hearts are with Billy Joel and his family following today’s announcement,” the statement read. “As a New York icon and global music legend, he has profoundly shaped the cultural fabric of this city and touched audiences around the world. We send our love and full support and wish him strength and a healthy recovery. We’re deeply honored that this year’s Opening Night celebrates his remarkable legacy and enduring influence on New York’s cultural landscape. This is the perfect moment to recognize a creative force whose work reflects the very soul of our city — and the heart of Tribeca.”
